Metropolis #1049 May 2-15, 2014

Japan’s Nº1 English Magazine www.metropolis.co.jp

#1049 May 2~15, 2014

FREE!

FISTS FURY OF

TOKYO'S CORPORATE CRUSADERS RETURN FOR EXECUTIVE FIGHT NIGHT IV

LOCAL FLAVORS BEST BETS FOR BAKERIES RESTAURANT REVIEW TRUE EGGS BENNY IN MINAMI-AOYAMA THE LAST WORD IT’S AN ENGLISH TEACHER’S LIFE FOR ME

CAMPAIGN PRICES VALID UNTIL MAY 15

50% off for laser hair removal and IPL (photo facial) Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Dermatologist

Cosmetic Surgery Laser Treatment Skin Care

make your beauty wishes come true with the best in technology and high quality products

Surgical Treatments

Non-surgical Treatments

• EYELID SURGERY • NOSE SURGERY • BREAST SURGERY • LIPOSUCTION • LASER-LIPO • FACE LIFT • TISSUE ENGINEERING TECHNIQUES • SKIN TUMORS

• LASER & REJUVENATION • BOTOX & FILLERS • ACNE & ACNE SCARS • LASER HAIR REMOVAL • CELLULITE, BODY CONTOURING & STRETCH MARKS • LEG VEIN, BROKEN CAPILLARY

Other cosmetic procedures available. For fees and detailed information services, please refer to our homepage.

Quality of Akai Clinic

At Akai clinic, we only use products and technologies approved by the FDA.

DR. HIDEMI AKAI is a board-certified plastic surgeon and an associate professor of the department of plastic, aesthetic and reconstructive surgery at Tokyo’s Showa University.

Dr. Akai trained at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital before amassing over twenty-five years of experience.

DR. KEIKO AKAI is also a board-certified plastic surgeon, and a dermatologist.

The Akai Medical Clinic offers a range of cosmetic-surgery procedures, laser treatments and skin care, using state-of-the-art equipment and the latest techniques.

www.akaiclinic.com

We welcome email and phone inquiries.

Omotesando

KNK Bldg 3F 3-5-17, Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo.

1-min walk from Omotesando stn, A3 exit.

Tel: 03-5771-4114 Email: amc@akaiclinic.com Clinic hours: 11AM~8PM (Mon~Sun)

Yokohama

Quadrifoglio 4F 5-14 Kinkocho, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama.

1-min walk from Yokohama stn, North East exit.

Tel: 045-620-5745 Email: amc-skincare@akaiclinic.com Clinic hours: 11AM~7PM (Tue~Fri) & 10AM~5PM (Sat & Hol)

INSIDE

#1049

for Metropolis is looking

MAY 2-15, 2014

contributors:

PHOTO: KOHJI SHIIKI

Feature story writers “The Last Word” • F & B ese food experts, Bar reviewers, Japan hu fans wine aficionados, shoc

Photo of the week

Submit your snaps at http://metropolis.co.jp/photo

strong industry Prior experience and contacts a must. of introduction, To apply, send letter s to CV and relevant clip

editor@metropolis.co.jp

e of correspondence Due to the high volum query. ’t respond to every can we t tha et we regr No calls please.

06 FEATURE

EXECUTIVE FIGHT NIGHT 03 THE SMALL PRINT 04 GLOBAL VILLAGE 05 UPFRONT 08 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 11 AGENDA 12 LISTINGS 18 MOVIES 21 DINING OUT 23 CLASSIFIEDS & JOBS 29 HOROSCOPE & MEDIABOX 30 LAST WORD

Search over 25 million photos ✓ 10 free starter credits with registration ✓ 25% credits bonus on purchase Promo Code: Metropolis

www.123rf.com/metropolis

Two maiko walking on a beautiful spring morning in Kyoto, by Daniel Tang DESIGN: KOHJI SHIIKI, PHOTOGRAPHY: DRAWING A CROWD

The Small Print

By Steve Trautlein

WHEN WALKING WITH A FAMILY MEMBER “ THROUGH A PLACE LIKE SHIBUYA OR IKEBUKURO, SHE’LL BE WEARING A BREATHING MASK TO ENSURE THAT SHE IS NOT SEEN BY A CUSTOMER.”

ćć It was reported that an increasing number of people who want inexpensive places to live are seeking out cheap properties “where suicides, murders and other incidents” have taken place. ćć A sightseeing company in Tsukuba, Ibaraki, has become the first in the country to offer tours using Segways. ćć Lawmakers in the lower house of the Diet approved a deal to export “nuclear power infrastructure” to Turkey and the UAE. CHRISTI ROCHIN

—From the article “Parents Beware! How to Tell if Your Daughter Is a Part-Time Sex Worker” in the April 13 edition of Nikkan Gendai

UPWARD & ONWARD ćć Officials with the health ministry have banned the online sale of five erectile dysfunction drugs. ćć LDP secretary general Shigeru Ishiba said the government’s new doctrine of collective selfdefense may apply in military conflicts “on the other side of the globe.” ćć Princess Aiko, the only child of Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako, was among the 200 new students who enrolled last month at Gakushuin Girls’ Junior High School in Toshima-ku. ćć Sentence of the Week: “Several images for new Japanese school textbooks showing children doing potentially dangerous activities—such as climbing a tree in short sleeves—were edited during screening to make the activities appear safer, it has been learned.” (via Mainichi Japan)

EAT THE RICH ćć A study by the education ministry has found that the academic performance of Japanese children rises in proportion to their parents’ income.

�

39,100

Piglets in Japan that have been killed during an outbreak of the Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea virus

launch in 2005, has suspended publication.

INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS ćć Officials at the Japan Federation of Bar Associations are concerned that the 150 law yers who have registered to handle cases related to the Hague Convention on international child abductions “lack sufficient English skills and experience.” ćć Aut horit ies at t he World Box ing Council awarded an honorar y championship belt to Iwao Hakamada, the former professional fighter who was freed from prison in March after spending more than 35 years on death row. ćć Diplomats at the Russian Embassy in Tokyo presented an “order of friendship” medal to Yasuhiro Yamashita, the vice president of the All Japan Judo Federation. ćć Trade officials in Vietnam say they’re having success with a “paperless customs clearance system” that was developed by Japanese tech firms.

AND FINALLY…

THAT SINKING FEELING ćć The internal affairs ministry says Japan’s population as of October was 127,298,000—a 0.17 percent drop from the year before and the lowest in 13 years. ćć It’s the third straight year that the population has declined. ćć The ministry says the percentage of children in Japan (12.9) is at a record low, while the percentage of seniors (25.1) is at a record high. ćć Monthly magazine Koakuma Ageha, which was described as “the Bible of gyaru culture” after its

�

15 years, 9 months

Age of Minami Katsu, who last month became the youngest ever winner on the Japan LPGA tour

�

ćć Marine biologists in Kanagawa say a 3.6-meterlong giant squid caught in Tokyo Bay in March “will provide valuable data for the fishing industry,” even though the beast died a few hours after being captured. ćć Authorities at the Consumer Affairs Agency have noted a drastic decrease in the number unwanted telemarketing calls since they set up a system that automatically alerts callers that their conversations will be recorded. ćć The heads of Japanese utility companies say they’re confident of being able to supply enough energy this summer despite all of the country’s nuclear reactors being offline. ćć Officials at the environment ministry say Japan has met its target for reducing greenhouse gases under the terms of the 1997 Kyoto Protocol.

81

Percent of Japanese companies that say they expect to earn higher profits this year, according to a news-service survey

COMPILED FROM REPORTS BY AP, JAPAN TODAY, THE JAPAN TIMES, JIJI, THE TOKYO REPORTER, THE MAINICHI, THE JAPAN NEWS, AFP, REUTERS AND KYODO

#1049 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 03

Global Village

LYNNE TWIST

Global activist to speak on women’s empowerment with Japan’s first lady

By The Editors

A

ccording to author, speaker, fundraiser, human rights advocate and environmental activist Lynne Twist, commitment is an antidote to resignation and hopelessness—which she thinks is certainly pertinent to modern Japan. And empowering committed communities—both large and small—around important issues on the local and global level is the essence of her work. Returning to Tokyo for the first time in 20 years, on May 13 she’ll be engaging in a roundtable discussion on empowering women with First Lady Akie Abe. The meeting was brought about with the assistance of Hide Enomoto, who has worked with Twist in the past.

His group of facilitators, Seven Generations, includes

writer Miki Takatsuki, who regularly meets with Mrs. Abe in a women’s circle.

She, along with filmmaker Jin Tatsumura, invited Twist to join their May get-together.

Twist creates focus groups wherever she travels, listens and hears about people’s dreams, then works to find ways to put tools in their hands that match the locally available resources, whether in sub-Saharan

.

Africa or in Japan. “The mobilization of so many concerned people around 2011’s Great East Japan Earthquake could become a focal point for addressing our environmental crisis around the globe,” she says. “Japanese corporations could play a leading role in bridging the gap between profit-driven enterprises and ‘socially responsible’ NPOs operating on shoestring budgets. And this bridge could extend to more Japanese women in leadership and management roles in all areas of society.”

Her meeting with Mrs. Abe will be followed by a discussion on the same topic at Nippon Zaidan Hall in Toranomon, which will be open to 150 members of the public. Twist will also be speaking on leadership, fundraising, global citizenship and more at daily events across the city from May 9.

See community listings for details.

PHOTO BY DAN ORLOWITZ/THIRD LENS OPEN WWW.THIRDLENSOPEN.COM/TLO

A M A ASK METROPOLIS ANYTHING Kick-off conference: Team representatives from J1, J2 & J3 Dear AMA, What exactly is the difference between J-league 1, 2 and 3, in terms of soccer player professionalism? —Footie Interest: Medium-rare

Thanks to the system of promotion and relegation, it’s possible for a local team to advance from a city league to the J-League. That doesn’t make it easy, however—admission into the J-League requires that teams satisfy a variety of requirements ranging from stadium capacity and training facilities to academy systems and finances. The league awards different J1, J2 and J3 licenses. For example, a team with a J1 license can participate in the country’s top flight by earning promotion from the J2 in the previous season.

Unlike Europe, Japanese law prohibits clubs from revealing their players’ salaries. Of course, that doesn’t prevent the media from making educated guesses

Dear Medium-rare, We passed your query on to Dan Orlowitz, editor at Goal.com Japan. Here’s what he had to say...

Like the rest of the world, Japan’s soccer leagues are organized in a pyramid, with the J-League occupying the top three levels and regional, prefectural, and local leagues below them.

JR S

oto

bo li

ne

Admission 1 ticket (7 min)=¥2000, 3 tix=¥5000, 5 tix=¥7500

04 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

If you want to “Ask Metropolis Anything,” send your questions to askanything@metropolis.co.jp and we’ll find the most appropriate people to answer your queries.

Mention Metropolis for FREE ADMISSION

THE RACE IS ON!

Groups of 4 or more can compete with each other

based on seniority and performance-based incentives such as league honors or national team appearances.

If you’re asking about the level of play, the J1 is widely considered to be one of Asia’s top leagues and boasts a number of top players, including many current and former Samurai Blue members.

The J2 isn’t nearly as technically talented as a league, but both Manchester United superstar Shinji Kagawa and the Brazil national football team’s Hulk (Givanildo Vieira de Souza) have played for J2 clubs in the past—so don’t discount them too quickly. Games in this league have lower attendances and are played in less modern stadia.

The J3 is more of a “development league” for teams that hope to earn a J1 license in the future. Quality-wise the teams simply don’t match up to their European third division counterparts, but it’s nonetheless an entertaining way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

Goal.com is the world’s largest soccer news site. www.goal. com. For more information on the J-League in English, visit https://www.facebook.com/goalxjleague

JR Keiyo

Line

Keiy oH igh wa y

MAY

Upfront pretty gomi Garbage Bag Art Work is trying to change the image of trash itself. The environmentally conscious group reasons that, while nobody likes to think about the “problem” of garbage, bags with cute and appealing patterns might encourage people to think of the “fun” of it—thereby raising awareness while improving the aesthetic of streetside trash. Among its varied products, the group offers bags printed with huge vegetable images (¥216 for 5) made from recycled farm polyethylene, while a team-up with conservationist Mottainai project has produced bags blazoned with weeping animals representing species vulnerable to global warming (¥540 for 10).—Taiichi Izawa

pear shaped

may-toberfest?

There are half a dozen Oktoberfest celebrations in the Kanto area in May. Why now? Keine Fragen: Just get yourself ein Bier und eine Brezel!

According to unreliable sources, loveable-but-creepy pear-shaped blob Funassyi’s fame is skyrocketing by 500% d a i ly, a nd it w i l l s o on r iva l Ku m a mon for mo st wel lknown yurukyara in the world. The gender-free blobby’s latest endeavor finds it collaborating with multiple Harajuku brands at LaForet, plastered across tees from Hell Cat Punks and Mint Neko or hugging your behind on the back of undies from Yummy Mart and more. The most impressive collaboration by far is a badge depicting Funassyi perched atop a unicorn in full lolita regalia.

The Funassyi Collection is available May 2-18 at participating stores in LaForet Harajuku.—LW

☛ Symbol Promenade Park, Odaiba Apr 25-May 6. Weekdays 4pm-10pm; Sat-Sun & hols 1pm-10pm (L.O. 9:30pm). ☛ Hibiya Park May 16-25. Weekdays 4pm-10pm; SatSun 11am-10pm (L.O. 9:30pm). ☛ Komazawa Olympic Park May 30-Jun 8. Weekdays 4pm-10pm; Sat-Sun 11am-10pm (L.O. 9:30pm). ☛ Akarenga Red Brick Warehouse, Yokohama Apr 25-May 6. 11am-9:30pm daily (first day 5-9pm). ☛ Tochigi Station, North Square May 2-5. Weekdays 5pm-9pm; Sat-Sun 11am-9pm; last day 11am-7pm. ☛ Omochanomachi Station, East Exit Rotary May 17-18. 11am-8pm.

More info: http://www.okt-fest.jp/okt_t.html

mark the date Golden Week represents the alignment of three May holidays with Showa Day on April 29, forming roughly a week of holidays—a rare event in workaholic Japan. It’s also the big week for movie releases.

MAY 3 Constitution Memorial Day A day to celebrate the promulgation of Japan’s present constitution in 1947.

MAY 4 Greenery Day

statshot TOP 10 TOKYO BAKERIES According to Tabelog.com users (see our own picks on p.22): 1. L’atelier de Plaisir: http://meturl.com/2y 2. Signifiant Signifie: http://meturl.com/2z 3. Signifiant Signifie Nihonbashi Takashimaya Store: http://meturl.com/30 4. Machi no Parlor: http://meturl.com/31 5. Boule Beurre Boulangerie: http://meturl.com/32 6. Le Ressort: http://meturl.com/33 7. Dandelion: http://meturl.com/34 8. Bakery Asakura: http://meturl.com/37 9. Zerukoba: http://meturl.com/35 10. Bakery House Mai: http://meturl.com/36

edo arts & crafts Hotel Nikko Tokyo goes back in time to old Edo with its latest seasonal fair, and is inviting everyone to join in on the old-timey fun. During the Golden Week long weekend, workshops for elementary schoolaged kids (and their guardians!) will teach a variety of almost-but-not-quite lost skills. On May 3 you can paint traditional Japanese wind chimes, while you can create bamboo blinds on May 4—or if you prefer you can just make a kite on May 5. Classes are held in Japanese, but English-speaking hotel staff may be available if the body language doesn’t translate. Reservations can be made via the hotel website: www.hnt.co.jp/edo2014

When former Emperor Showa died in 1989, his birthday (April 29) was converted into Greenery Day. In 2007, Greenery Day was converted into Showa Day, and Greenery Day got bumped over to May 4, which had been a nameless national holiday.

MAY 5 Children’s Day Designated a national holiday back in 1948, Children’s Day was originally only for boys, known as Tango no Sekku, and celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth moon of the lunar calendar.

MAY 6 Greenery Day (observed)

—Lisa Wallin

#1049 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 05

EXECUTIVE FIG Feature

Filip “The Boy” Pusnik

“Savage” Sam Yusef

Herman “The Haymaker from Jamaica” Douglas

Tokyo professionals get in the ring

By Cal Widdall

I

n a city that never sleeps—though often naps on trains and desks—the residents all need some form of release. Thankfully, there are a few opportunities healthier than the usual over-indulging in happy hours or occasionally jabbing inattentive passersby with your umbrella. The Tony Evans & deVere Group Executive Fight Night is one of the more extreme options. It affords office workers—both Japanese and non-Japanese alike—the chance to step into an authentic Vegas-style boxing ring for three 2-minute rounds and physically beat the stress out of each other like dust from an old futon.

Andrew “Dragonbawl-Z” MacKinlay

Clark “Tornado” Johnson

06 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

The event organizers, Eddie Nixon, Dave Thomas and Nathan Schmid, refer to themselves collectively as the “Ginja Ninjas” and talk of a dark winter’s night in a Harajuku back street when the idea for EFN came to them. It proved an instant success, and went on to sell out on all three occasions, raising a total of ¥17 million for charity. The first event supported Run for the Cure, whose aim is to eradicate breast cancer as a life-threatening disease in Japan through education, timely screening and treatment; and the last two raised money for Refugees International Japan, an NPO that assists refugees displaced by war and conflict around the world. This time, for EFN IV: Fists of Fury, proceeds will go to the Shine On! Kids’ facility dog program, which provides animal-assisted therapy to children with cancer. The organization’s marketing manager, Joy Fajardo, has intimate knowledge of EFN, having fought in—and won—the very first bout in November 2012.

David “Big Bad” Booker

Jeremy “The Beast” Barnes

THE CONTENDERS The current crop of f ighters comprises si xte en men a nd w omen f rom ten d i f ferent countries, all of whom have been put through a rigorous 12-week boot camp at Club 360 run by professional coaches and former professional fighters Jan Kaszuba and Ona Davaa. Only carefully selected applicants make it through to the boot camp, and the Ginja Ninjas are unequivocal that preparation for the main event is a fight within itself. “It is certainly not for the faint hearted,” Nixon says. “You hit and get hit hard.

Blood is spilled. You train very early in the morning or late into the night while juggling your job, family and other commitments.”

Those chosen to compete must attend a minimum of 24 sessions regardless of any other commitments they have. One of the organizers even arranged for Herman Douglas, an engineer

Keith “The Horse” Hudson

Maya “Money” Deborne

Yena “The Voodoo Hitman” Apithy

撮影：澤井秀夫

GHT NIGHT

A DOG IN THE FIGHT

Canines combating cancer

P

Nobbi “Violent Right” Tanaka

PHOTOS COURTESY OF EFN - DRAWING A CROWD

Elizabeth “Hot Hands” Taylor

from Jamaica, to attend a local boxing gym while on a 2-week business trip in New York, giving him an opportunity to learn from career boxers. "They had a calm serenity out of the ring," Douglas says.

"And a collected and calculated switch into their all-too-familiar fight mode when they stepped in to spar. I'll do my best to draw from those lessons when I get in the ring.”

As well as improvement in boxing technique, many of those competing have undergone rapid physical transformations during the twelve-week boot camp. Filip Pusnik, a financial coordinator from Wales, lost 6kg during the process due to the intensity of the regimen and a strict diet that almost completely cuts out carbohydrates. Project director Sam Yusef had to lose—then regain—4kg due to his original (lighter) opponent pulling out.

Yusef is one of the few competitors with no previous fight training, but jokingly refers to a

Aaron “VERY” Manley

Adam “The Landlord” German

childhood in Hackney, East London as his combat experience. Having attended EFN II as a spectator, he explains it was the event’s support of Refugees International Japan that inspired him to participate. “As a former refugee, I felt privileged to be able to help other people who were facing the same challenges my family had to endure in the ’70s.” He failed to make the cut for EFN III, but vowed to keep trying until he was selected to participate.

Elizabet h Taylor, a ret ired in-f light service manager and mother of three young boys, will fight in the women’s bout. Although her eldest child Jaden, aged 6, told her early on that “girls don’t do boxing,” she later overheard him proudly telling his school friends about it. As a karate black-belt-holder and two-time marathon runner, Taylor is used to the physical demands of training for competition, and has recently

Jonathan “It’s About to Get Real” Quioco

Weston“Dom Perignon” Borden

roceeds from Executive Fight Night IV will go towards Shine On! Kids’ facility dog program, helping them improve the treatment process for children with cancer through animal-assisted therapy. Their two dogs, Bailey and Yogi, provide love and companionship throughout difficult and frightening procedures. As Yuka Kato, a nurse at Shizuoka Hospital, explains, “Bailey doesn’t tell the kids what to do or how to feel. He’s just there for them. The kids say, ‘If Bailey’s with me, I’ll do it,’ or ‘I’ll be OK as long as Bailey’s at my side.’”

The dogs’ presence can also benefit parents, who feel they need to remain strong in front of their children. “When they’re with us, they feel they have to talk, but sometimes they go into another room with Bailey and just have a good cry,” Kato says.

The Ginja Ninjas say they chose Shine On! Kids because, as organizer Dave Thomas says, “It supports children who are fighting for their lives every day, and so we truly felt this was an amazing cause that was worth us fighting for, too.” Their facility dog program is the first of its kind in Japan, and the only one in the world that employs nursehandlers whose sole focus is working with the dogs.

For more information on the Facility Dog Program, visit: www.sokids.org/programs/ facility-dog/

been rising at 5am five days a week to go on a run before the rest of the family wakes up.

Ex pectat ions are high for Nobbi Tanaka, one of the two Japanese nationals fighting. He’s been box ing for 13 years w ith three amateur matches under his belt. He also has kickbocking and karate experience, so his confidence is high. “I’ve won ever y boxing fight—all inside the distance. I don’t see how this fight will be any different.” K now n as t he jokester of t he group, Tanaka once appeared on the Australian version of Big Brother. He says, “It was a g reat ex perience, but look ing back now it’s pretty embarrassing. Please don’t judge me.”

Fo r m o re i n fo r m at io n , v i s it w w w. executivefightnight .com . Ticketing: ticketing@ginjaninjas.com (Please note tickets may have sold out before this article is published)

Evan Kerr (reserve)

Jan Kaszuba, trainer

Ona Davaa, trainer

#1049 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 07

Arts & Entertainment ALL THE BEST IN ARTS & CULTURE ACROSS THE METROPOLIS games

COMMUTER GAMER

Hacking, smashing and puzzling your way home

By Adam Bolton

MONUMENT VALLEY Ustwo (¥400; iOS, Android) Where art meets interactivity in a surreal landscape M o n u m e n t Vall e y i s one of t hose pa r t icu la r titles that you find yourself compelled to revisit again and again to bask in the creativity and atmosphere.

Developed by Ustwo, the game pays homage to the mathematical artistry of M.C. Escher, while painting a beautiful, interpretive story of its own.

Follow Ida, the silent princess, as she makes her way through sand-blown, twisting structures set in a beautiful backdrop reminiscent of Arabian folktales.

Each of the ten chapters, though short in duration, offers some of the cleverest level design seen on the platform, each with its Escher-like impossible angles and endless loops, and it is up to Ida to traverse these pathways while rotating and manipulating the world so that she may pay her respects at each monument.

Throughout each stage, Ida will converse with the spirits of a long dead civilization, drawing out the few tidbits of spoken storyline that will lead her on the path to uncovering the mysteries of the Monument Valley.

art

IMPRESSIONIST CERAMICS

3-D impressionism in Shiodome

By C.B. Liddell

T

hat mutual appreciation society of Japanese traditional arts and French impressionism is back in town with the latest exhibition at the Panasonic Shiodome Museum: “French Ceramics at the Time of Impressionism 1866-1886.”

The exhibition, which has already visited three other museums dotted around Japan, harps on a theme dear to the hearts of the Japanese art public, namely the way that Japanese art and design—known by the French as Japonisme—helped inspire the revolutionary aesthetic flowering of impressionism, the one style of modern art that most people actually like.

Ceramics and gentle, colour-sensitive daubs on canvas may not be two things you would normally associate, but in 19th-century France, where everything had to be decorated, most serious artists also tended to do design and decorative work for various manufacturers.

SMASH HIT Mediocre (free with ¥200 checkpoint unlock; iOS, Android) Being juvenile has never been so fun (or safe) Clear proof that almost anything can be made into an iOS game, Mediocre has implemented a simple concept brilliantly with its title Smash Hit. Considered an “infinite-runner,” Smash Hit has you traveling down geometrical corridors armed with nothing but your reflexes and a cluster of metal ball bearings.

The aim of the game is to simply reach the end, but along the way you will be challenged by obstacles of varying complexity—and as the title suggests, it’s up to you to smash through them.

Break through glass screens, twisting pillars, pendulums and surprise walls—as you lob arching bearings at the obstacles with two of your fingers.

Be warned: be sparing with each shot, for these are your lives, too. Run out and it’s game over. Hit particular targets, however, and you gain five shots—with each added increase accumulating into a kind of level-up, allowing for more shots per throw. Hit any of the many obstacles, though, and expect to lose ten of your total bearings and suffer a reset to the level-up counter.

The game shows its uniqueness in its game mechanics and its approach. There are few iOS titles that manage such a level of physical and realistic destruction, as each pane of glass or target smashes

08 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

“Engraved Charger with Blue Mountain and Autumn Landcape Design” by Félix Bracquemond, 1874

with a satisfying realism—satisfying without being excessive—and the mellow, ambient music counters this destruction perfectly.

Good for both those stressful days when you need to vent or those chilled days when you just want to zone out, Smash Hit certainly delivers what it promises.

REPUBLIQUE Camouflaj (¥500; iOS) Use stealth as your ally in a fight against “The Man” in a dystopian society Funded by Kickstarter and released solely for iOS,

This was certainly the case with Félix Bracquemond, a master of etching who participated in the first impressionist exhibition in 1874. Bracquemond was also employed by Haviland & Co., a manufacturer of luxurious Limoges porcelain, to create designs for their tableware.

Conveniently for the narrative of this exhibition, he was particularly inspired by the flowers and birds he saw in Japanese woodblock prints.

Using images taken from Katsushika Hokusai’s Hokusai Manga, he created potent, asymmetrical designs for his Service Rousseau tableware.

At the exhibition, some of these are arranged in table dressings, with flowers, napkins and cutlery, to give the TV-dinner generation a refreshing blast of dining elegance.

One thing I always notice when I visit this museum is the trouble taken to make the layout and displays as attractive as possible, so expect something a lot more attractive than a few jugs and bowls in glass cases.

The Haviland company could maybe be seen as the “image piracy” company of its day, as another one of its ceramic artists was fond of lifting images from Hokusai’s work. But despite sharing a common source, Jules Vieillard’s designs strike quite a different note from those of Bracquemond.

If the exhibition was limited to these works, a more appropriate title would have been “Japonisme and French Ceramics,” but also included are works like Bracquemond’s Engraved Charger with Blue Mountain and Autumn Landscape Design (1874).

This was an attempt at applying some of the lessons of impressionist painting—such as the use of vivid colors and natural-looking scenery—directly to ceramic design.

In my opinion the attempt, although impressive, is not entirely successful, and it is not until we get to the rougher, slip-decorated works of Edouard Dammouse, Jules Herbert and Léon Parizot that we get ceramics that look truly impressionist.

Slip—the application of a semi-transparent coating—allows the same diffusion of light and color that impressionist painters achieved.

Republique is, at its core, a story-driven, stealth-lover’s dream. Influenced by such internationally renowned titles as Metal Gear Solid, Republique has you relying on such tactics as diversion, hacking and evasion to outwit your foes as you remotely guide a young captive, Hope, through a thrilling and engrossing world of political and expressive censorship, oppression and rebellion.

You take on the role of an anonymous hacker who has gained control of the Republique’s surveillance systems as you bounce from one camera to the next hacking door locks, investigating computer terminals and uncovering propaganda while shepherding Hope through the winding corridors and checkpoints in order to find salvation.

PHOTOS: COLLECTION Y. & L. D’ABLIS

“Pitcher with Swallow and Flower Design” by Leon Parizot, 1876-83

japan beat

IT CAME FROM JAPAN

Podcast brings the “creamiest” J-indies to the world

By Dan Grunebaum PHOTO BY TAISHI ARAI

T

here is no lack of Japanese tunes on the web, but little of it is presented with the authority wielded by It Came From Japan. English journalist Daniel Robson and his sidekick Asuka Eiki not only offer a Japanese music-crazed perspective and inside details on what’s going on in the music scene— they also produce the only podcast that plays all-Japanese music with permission from the rights holders. We heard from Robson about interviewing the likes of Buffalo Daughter, and which bands he expects to break big in 2014.

Particularly impressive is Dammouse’s Vase with a Rose Design (1876-83), while Parizot’s Pitcher with Swallow and Flower Design (1876-83) has a gentle lyrical quality with even a hint of wabi-sabi.

The exhibition is rounded out with some stoneware and some elegant copper-red porcelain vase designs by Ernest Chaplet that show the French were also interested in Chinese inspirations from the East. The two-dimensional variety of impressionism is also represented here, with a small selection of paintings by most of the best-known impressionists.

Panasonic Shiodome Museum until June 22. See exhibition listings (other areas) for details.

“Plate with Cock and Hornet Design”

by Félix Bracquemond, 1874

Along the way, you are assisted by Cooper, a hacker in his own right who speaks to you with an often comedic text-to-speech program. Cooper offers insights into the world and its inhabitants, ever pushing the story along.

One of the few high-quality AAA titles for iOS, Republique is an episodic affair with five sizable installments, the remaining four to be released throughout the year.

Filled to the brim with amazing design and toptier voice acting from some of the gaming industry’s most familiar talents, expect to be swept away with a highly engaging story that's brilliantly told and expertly crafted.

When and why did you start ICFJ? ICFJ started out in 2006 as a tour agency taking Japanese bands to the U.K. and later the U.S. The podcast was originally a freebie for our audience to keep them wet between tours. It turns out—who knew?—that simply submitting a song to be played on a podcast is a lot less commitment for the artists than flying halfway across the world for a show, so we’re able to expose more bands on the podcast than we can with tours.

Also, as a journalist who usually describes music in text form, I love that on a podcast the songs can speak for themselves.

Tell us how you became hopelessly addicted to J-indies.

I grew up with Western punk and rock music. Then in the ’90s I retrieved a discarded Shonen Knife CD (Let’s Knife) from a friend’s dustbin and fell madly in love. By the time I became a music journalist in London I was already hooked on everything from Melt-Banana to Puffy and would interview artists like Polysics and Utada Hikaru for U.K. publications. I moved here in 2006, shortly after the first ICFJ U.K. tour, to drink from the source. Nowadays, the indie scene keeps on throwing up new surprises, while most modern mainstream J-pop (AKB48 etc.) just makes me want to throw up.

How do you go about choosing bands to present?

Everything we play is with permission from the rights holders. Some of the major labels in Japan will allow usage on podcasts on a case-by-case [basis], but independent labels make up the majority of what we play.

Within that, I mostly pick songs by artists that have a timely release or overseas tour. I program the show from a journalistic perspective but heavily influenced by my own personal taste, which luckily is all over the place, so we cover a wide range: rock, punk, pop, electronic, rap and all the glorious crossovers that Japanese musicians excel at. My cohost Asuka Eiki picks some of the songs, too, and although she’s a model she’s a total metalhead. As for the interviews, I choose whatever artist is most interesting that month, with a particular emphasis on artists who will be of interest to our mostly Western listeners. And of course when ICFJ has an overseas tour coming up we feature those artists, too—all of whom are excellent, if I do say so myself.

Name three memorable ICFJ moments.

I recently interviewed the members of Cibo Matto for the show, which was a big deal because they just reformed to release their first album in 15 years and it was miraculously not rubbish. Some other great interview moments have included observing the older/

younger sibling dynamic between J-klezma sisters Charan Po Rantan, hearing the perspective of worldly Japanese artists such as Argentina-raised drummersinger Shishido Kavka and an emotional John Lydon appearing on our post-tsunami fundraising podcast.

In addition to on-air moments, I'm proud to have persuaded the Japanese government to spend money exporting contemporary artists overseas, with the Japan Rising showcase at The Great Escape festival in Brighton, England, on May 10—that one features Buffalo Daughter, Mayu Wakisaka and TarO&JirO and is going to be a real thrill.

What stands out among the feedback to ICFJ? We get such a wide range of feedback via Twitter and Facebook that it’s hard to pinpoint specific trends, but I’m pretty sure the majority of our listeners—who are split almost equally across the U.K., North America and Japan—hate AKB48 as much as I do, which means they’re a good crowd.

How are J-indies faring worldwide?

The Japanese artists with a following overseas are not necessarily the ones who are the most popular here—overseas activity counts for a lot, which gives independent artists an advantage. And of course the rise of Twitter has allowed artists to escape Japan’s payola-driven mainstream media and reach out to the world.

Tell us which Japanese act you think is most likely to break worldwide this year and why.

I’d love to see hip-hop duo Charisma.com, hardcore band Mamadrive, pop drummer-singer Shishido Kavka and others succeed overseas, though as with any Japanese artist they’ll have to want it, because the world won’t come to them. And of course, the artists playing at Japan Rising all have a good shot, since they were selected not by us but by the bookers of The Great Escape festival, who know the U.K. market better than anyone.

Name three indispensable Japanese music podcasts and websites.

I love Nihongaku Radio, which is a podcast of Japanese music recorded in Texas by a guy who lived here for a while, Jonathan McNamara. He works in radio, so the quality is great, and he has a very specific taste for Japanese rock. Most of the other Japanese music podcasts I’ve heard have been awful, but they serve as a good example of how not to do it. Basically, we try to keep the editorial and audio quality as high as possible, to mess around but keep it tight, and to show our passion for the music while maintaining a bit of journalistic perspective so it’s not just a fanboy gush-fest. http://itcamefromjapan.co.uk/

#1049 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 09

JapanTravel Map Your Travels Join our community of over 3000 members.

Specialize in photography, videography or writing.

Earn points and exchange for travel related rewards.

R! SUM M E R O F Y AD GE T R E

• UNLIMITED CLASSES FOR 10-WEEKS Special: Receive all of this for only ¥90,000!

• CUSTOMIZED NUTRITIONAL PLAN • 10-WEEK VIP MEMBERSHIP • 3 FITNESS & COMPOSITION ASSESSMENTS VIP Membership means massive discounts on Massage and Personal Training. For Club 360's schedule see www.club360.jp/scheduler

Just 3 min walk from Roppongi Hills No membership or joining fees Pristine showering facilities Large modern facility with spacious studio & 5-star

JapanTravel

www.japantravel.com 10 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

resistance zone

Address: B1 CMA3 Bldg, 3-1-35 Moto Azabu, Minato-ku • Nearest stn: Roppongi Hours: Open Mon-Sat 6:30am-9:30pm, closed Sun • Tel: 03-6434-9667

AGENDA concert

concert

festival

� Progressive domestic label Virgin Babylon presents a night that offers a look at some of the more intriguing and experimental bands in its stable.

World’s End Girlfriend is a one-man instrumental rock band consisting only of Katsuhiko Maeda, though he sometimes likes to mix it up with other musicians via his Poltergeist Ensemble. Also on the bill are alt-J-pop collective Vampillia, who just toured the U.S. and released their debut album, My Beautiful Twisted Nightmares In Aurora Rainbow Darkness, recorded in Iceland with Bjork’s production team. Filling out the off-the-beatenpath lineup are stablemates Go-qualia, Bronbaba and Bool.—Dan Grunebaum May 4, WWW. See concert listings for details.

� No one translates the U.S. indies sound into a Japanese context better than Aiha Higurashi.

Her formative ’90s outfit Seagull Screaming Kiss Her Kiss Her took inspiration from New York and transplanted raw, emotive downtown rock back into Tokyo—notwithstanding the band being named after a track from Britain’s XTC. Higurashi now celebrates 18 years in the biz with 18, a sprawling retrospective album that focuses mainly on Seagull, but also includes choice tracks by later outfits Loves and The Girl. The most surprising and delicious news is that Higurashi will be taking the Seagull songs out of the closet for a one-off live concert this week.—DG May 5, WWW. See concert listings for details.

� As fireworks go up, the tones of six giant odaiko drums ring out, leading eight mikoshi (portable shrines) to the climax of the Kurayami Matsuri— Okunitama Shrine’s annual Darkness Festival. Said to be one of the three oldest festivals in the Kanto region, each year as many as 700,000 people celebrate as the shrine’s sacred spirits are transported to their temporary homes under cover of darkness, said to be necessary because they are not to be seen by the human eye while outside the shrine. A variety of historical events are on offer at all hours throughout each of the festival’s seven days and nights, while the mikoshi parade leaves the shrine at 6pm May 5 and returns at 4am the next morning.—Taiichi Izawa Until May 6, Okunitama Shrine. See festival listings for details.

festival

clubbing

concert

� Musashi-Mitake Shrine is located 929 meters above sea level at the summit of Mount Mitake.

At a two-hour train ride from central Tokyo, it may seem a bit far, but it’s technically part of the city—and offers a great view. The shrine is right in the middle of Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, which boasts more than 1250 square kilometers of almost untouched nature. In service for nearly 2,000 years, Musashi-Mitake Shrine annually hosts the Hinode Matsuri (Sunrise Festival), and while the initial procession is a solemn affair, there’s a kagura (Shinto music-and-dance) performance at the end. The shrine is open until late in the evening before the festival, offering a rare night view of the entire city.—Lisa Wallin May 7-8, Musashi-Mitake Shrine. See festival events listings for details.

� World-champion turntablist A-Trak is not only a trackmaker to the stars (Kanye West et. al.), he’s also acclaimed by hardnosed critics.

Emerging from Montreal’s vital electronic music scene, Alain Macklovitch won the DMC World DJ Championship in 1997, becoming the youngest at 15 and the only Canadian to claim the crown.

In recent years, A-Trak has toured the world as part of the duo Duck Sauce with Armand Van Helden. His hip-hop/EDM hybrid sound will be featured on the mainfloor at Shibuya's four-level, 1500-capacity Sound Museum Vision, in a lineup that also boasts local deck maestros DJ Daruma and Wise from the Teriyaki Boyz.—DG May 16, Vision. See clubbing listings for details.

� Long a centerpiece of Yokohama’s event calendar, Greenroom’s blend of earthy grooves with a placid seaside location makes it the perfect spot to chillax or rock out depending on your vibe. This year’s headliner is reggae lion Jimmy Cliff, whose pioneering film The Harder They Come did perhaps more than anyone besides Bob Marley to bring Jamaican music to the West. In keeping with the surf theme, the bill also includes surf rockers such as Donavon Frankenreiter, mellow Japanese acts like songstress UA and upbeat ska-punk from Okinawa’s Mongol 800.

The park atmosphere and climbing installations can keep the kids occupied while parents enjoy brews and tunes.—DG May 24-25, Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. See concert listings for details.

VIRGIN BABYLON NIGHT SSKHKH

HINODE MATSURI

A-TRAK

KURAYAMI MATSURI

GREENROOM FESTIVAL

#1049 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 11

Listings Concerts POPULAR John Mayer

Singer of "Your Body is a Wonderland" and other love songs. May 2, 7pm; May 3, 5pm, ¥8,000-9,000. Nippon Budokan. Nearest stn: Kudanshita. Tel: 03-34025999. www.udo.jp/Artists/ JohnMayer

New Audiogram Version 7.5

The Starbems, Noisemaker and others. May 2, 7pm, ¥3,000 (adv)/ ¥3,500 (door) +1d. Fever. Nearest stn: Shindaita. Tel: 03-6304-7899. www.newaudiogram.com

Brian McKnight Trio

Legendary R&B singer accompanied by bass and guitar. May 2, 7 & 9:30pm; May 3, 4:30 & 7:30pm, ¥12,500-14,500. Billboard Live. Nearest stn: Roppongi. www.billboard-live.com

Hot Tuna Acoustic Duo Lecture Concert

Original Jefferson Airplane members Jorma Kaukonen and Jack Casady talk and play. May 3, 2pm, ¥4,000 (adv). Tokyo Women's Plaza. Nearest stn: Omotesando. order@ buffalo-records.com

Viva La Rock

The Telephones, Boom Boom Satellites, SiM and more. May 3-5, all day, ¥9,500 (1 day)/ ¥17,000 (2 days)/ ¥23,000 (3 days).

Saitama Super Arena.

Nearest stn: SaitamaShintoshin. http://ivalarock.jp/2014

Spy Air

J-pop quartet. May 3, 6pm, ¥4,800-5,000 (adv) +1d.

Zepp Diver City. Nearest stn: Daiba. http://hall.zepp.co.jp

Japan Jam

Zazen Boys, Suede, The Royal Concept and more.

May 3-5, 2:30pm, ¥4,9005,900 (1 day, adv)/ ¥12,000 (3 days, adv). Studio Coast.

Nearest stn: Shin-Kiba. http://japanjam.jp

Virgin Babylon Night 2

World's End Girlfriend, Vampillia and others. May 4, ¥4,000 (adv)/ ¥4,500 (door) +1d. WWW. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-6304-9255. ww.virgin-babylon-records. com

Seagull Screaming Kiss Her Kiss Her

Experimental indie rock. May 5, 6pm, ¥3,500 (adv)/ ¥4,000 (door) +1d. WWW. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-63049255. www-shibuya.jp

Carcass

May 6, 6pm; May 7, 7pm, ¥6,800 (adv) +1d. Club Quattro. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3499-6669. www.creativeman.co.jp

Explosions in the Sky Post-rock with elaborate guitar work and instrumentals. May 7, 7pm, ¥5,800 (adv) +1d.

Liquidroom. Nearest stn: Ebisu. Tel: 03-464-0800. www.smash-jpn.com

Yo La Tengo

Hoboken-born indie rock.

May 9, 7pm, ¥6,000 (adv) +1d. Ex Theater Roppongi.

Nearest stn: Roppongi or Nogizaka. May 11, 6pm, ¥6,000 (adv) +1d.

Liquidroom. Nearest stn: Ebisu. Tel: 03-3444-6751. www.smash-jpn.com

Spock's Beard

Progressive rock. May 10, 7pm, ¥7,000-8,000 (adv) +1d. Liquidroom. Nearest stn: Ebisu. Tel: 03-464-0800. www.smash-jpn.com

12 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

GO TO WWW.METURL.COM/LISTINGS FOR COMPLETE LISTINGS Fake Face

With Roach, Dolls Realize and The Wasted. May 10, 6:30pm, ¥2,400 (adv)/ ¥2,900 (door) +1d. Cyclone. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3463-0069. www.fake-face.net

Mad Ollie

Crossfaith, Meaning and others. May 10, 2pm, ¥3,500 (adv) +1d. Studio Coast. Nearest stn: Shin-Kiba. Tel: 03-34996669. www.creativeman.co.jp

Emergenza Semi-final

Multinational indies band The Complaints Department and others battle to reach the next stage. May 10, 5:20pm; May 11, 5:50pm; May 17, 5:20pm; May 18, 5:20pm; May 25, 5:50pm, ¥2,500 (adv) +1d. Eggman.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. meturl.com/emergenzajp

Intact Records Tour

Featuring Another Story and My First Story. May 11, 6pm, ¥2,500 (adv) +1d. Club Quattro.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-8750. www.smash-jpn.com

Temples

English psychedelic rock. May 12, 7pm, ¥5,500 (adv) +1d. Club Quattro. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 03-3477-8750. www.smash-jpn.com

Toko Furuuchi

’90s J-pop chanteuse 20th anniversary premium live.

May 12, 6:30 & 9pm ¥7,5009,500. Cotton Club. Nearest stn: Tokyo. Tel: 03-3215-1555. www.cottonclubjapan.co.jp

65daysofstatic

Post-rock band with Cinema Staff. May 14, 7pm, ¥5,500 (adv) +1d. Liquidroom. Nearest stn: Ebisu. Tel: 03-5464-0800. www.creativeman.co.jp

Disclosure

Electronic music-making brothers. May 15, 7pm, ¥5,800 (adv) +1d. Studio Coast.

Nearest stn: Shin-Kiba. www.creativeman.co.jp

Body

With Lillies and Remains, The Novembers and Plasticzooms.

May 15, 7pm, ¥3,500 (adv) +1d.

O-East. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 03-3444-6751. www.smash-jpn.com

Low IQ 01 & Master Low

J-rock duo. May 16, 7:30pm, ¥3,900 (adv) +1d. Akasaka Blitz. Nearest stn: Akasaka. www.smash-jpn.com

Jun K

Singer from 2PM’s solo show.

May 16, 7pm, ¥8,850 (adv) +1d. Studio Coast. Nearest stn: Shin-Kiba. Tel: 03-3405-9999. www.sogotokyo.com

Paul McCartney

Musician, humanitarian, poet and singer. May 17-18, 5:30pm, ¥13,500-17,500 (adv) +1d.

National Olympic Stadium.

Nearest stn: Gaienmae.

Tel: 0570-550-799. http://outthere-japantour.com

This is Not a Business

Electro-rockers with tengu masks. May 18, 6:30pm, ¥2,500 (adv)/ ¥3,000 (door) +1d.

WWW. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 045-201-9999. http://www-shibuya.jp

Takeshi Kikuchi

New single release show. May 19, 7 & 9pm, ¥3,800. Motion Blue. Nearest stn: Bashamichi.

Tel: 045-226-1919. www.motionblue.co.jp

Kemuri

Crazy ska band with Atata.

May 23, 7pm, ¥4,500 (adv) +1d. Shibuya-AX. Nearest stn: Harajuku. Tel: 03-3444-6751. http://kemuri.com

Metrock

The Telephones, Unison Square Garden and others.

May 24-25, noon, ¥9,800 (1 day, adv)/ ¥18,000 (2 days,

adv). Wakasu Park. Nearest stn: Shin-kiba. www.metrock.jp

Sonar Pocket

J-pop trio. May 24, 6pm; May 25, 5pm, ¥5,500 (adv) +1d. Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium. Nearest stn: Sendagaya. Tel: 03-5474-2112. www.tef.or.jp/tmg

Greenroom Festival

Surf culture festival with music, art and film. May 24-25, all day, ¥9,500 (1 day, adv)/ ¥16,500 (2 days, adv). Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. Nearest stn: Minatomirai. Tel: 045-671-7719. www.greenroom.jp

creativeman.co.jp

JAZZ/WORLD Earl Klugh

Acoustic guitar. May 2-3, various times, ¥8,500-10,500.

Cotton Club. Nearest stn: Tokyo. Tel: 03-3215-1555. www.cottonclubjapan. co.jp/en/

Mountain Mocha Kilimanjaro

Japanese funk. May 2, 7:30pm, ¥3,400. Motion Blue. Nearest stn: Bashamichi. Tel: 045-2261919. www.motionblue.co.jp

Thick Festival

Dee Dee Bridgewater feat.

Theo Croker

Loud & Metal Attack

Hideaki Nakaji Obatala Segundo

Secret 7 Line, Hey Smith, Roach and more. May24-25, noon, ¥3,800 (1 day)/ ¥6,800 (2 days) +1d. Club Citta. Nearest stn: Kawasaki. Tel: 0570-084003. www.thickfestival.com Amorphis, Von Hertzen Brothers and others. May 24, 3pm, ¥6,800 (adv) +1d. Studio Coast. Nearest stn: Shin-Kiba.

Tel: 03-3499-6669. www. creativeman.co.jp

The Alfee

J-rock group celebrates 40 years in the business. May 24, 6pm; May 25, 5pm, ¥7,350 (adv). NHK Hall. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3405-9999. www.sogotokyo.com

Imperial State Electric

Former Hellacopters frontman Nicke Andersson's rock project. May 26, 7pm, ¥5,000 (adv) +1d. Club Quattro. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 03-3444-6751. www. smash-jpn.com

Nogod

Top jazz singer. May 2-4, various times, ¥8,500. Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando.

Tel: 03-5485-0088. www. bluenote.co.jp

Exciting Latin sounds. May 4, 5:30 & 7:30pm, ¥4,000. Motion Blue. Nearest stn: Bashamichi.

Tel: 045-226-1919. www. motionblue.co.jp

Emilie-Claire Barlow

Canadian jazz diva. May 4-6, various times, ¥6,500-8,500.

Cotton Club. Nearest stn: Tokyo. Tel: 03-3215-1555. www.cottonclubjapan.co.jp/ en/

Music Around the World

Takashi Ooi performs jazz tunes from around the globe.

May 4, 2pm, ¥4,200. Ginza Jujiya Hall. Nearest stn: Ginza or Yurakucho.

Tel: 03-3535-1028. www.hall.ginzajujiya.com

Graham Central Station

Heavy metal meets visual-kei.

May 28, 6:45pm, ¥4,500 (adv) +1d. Shibuya-AX. Nearest stn: Harajuku. Tel: 050-5533-0888. www.shibuya-ax.com

Legendary Larry Graham with his funky band. May 4-5, 4:30 & 7:30pm; ¥7,800-9,800.

Billboard Live. Nearest stn: Roppongi. www.billboardlive.com

Flush the Toilet

Tower of Power

Punk rockers SiM and Meaning. May 28, 7pm, ¥2,800 (adv)/ ¥3,300 (door) +1d. Loft.

Nearest stn: Shinjuku. Tel: 03-5272-0382. www.sxixm. com

Taicoclub 14

Lightning Bolt, Panda Bear and others. May 31, 3pm-Jun 1, 2pm; ¥11,000-12,500 (adv).

Kodama no Mori. Nearest stn: Yabuhara. Tel: 03-6303-3690. http://taicoclub.com/14

Man with a Mission

Rockers in wolves' clothing.

May 31, 5pm, ¥4,935 (adv).

Makuhari Messe.

Nearest stn: Kaihin-Makuhari. www.diskgarage.com

The Birthday

Japanese garage rock. May 31, 6pm, ¥4,860 (adv) +1d.

Yokohama Bay Hall. Nearest stn: Motomachi-Chukagai.

Tel: 03-3444-6751. www.smash-jpn.com

ARTEMA

Electro-metalcore. Jun 1, 7pm, ¥3,000 (adv) +1d. Unit.

Nearest stn: Daikanyama.

Tel: 03-3444-6751. www. smash-jpn.com

Buridane

Profound and sensitive lyrics penned and sung by young French singer. Jun 1, 6:30pm, free. Zounohana Terrace.

Nearest stn: Nihon O-dori.

Tel: 045-201-1514. www. institutfrancais.jp/yokohama

The Album Leaf

Solo project by Jimmy LaValle.

Jun 3, 7pm, ¥5,000 (adv) +1d.

WWW. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 03-3444-6751. www.smash-jpn.com

Fact

With Memphis May Fire and Lower than Atlantis. Jun 4, 6:30pm, ¥3,700 (adv) +1d.

Zepp Tokyo. Nearest stn: Aomi.

Tel: 03-3499-6669. www.

Old school R&B comes back to Japan. May 5-8, various times, ¥10,800. Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando.

Tel: 03-5485-0088. www.bluenote.co.jp

Dimension

Live Dimensional 2014. May 5, 5 & 8pm, ¥6,000. Motion Blue.

Nearest stn: Bashamichi.

Tel: 045-226-1919. www.motionblue.co.jp

Les Frères: Buggy Woogie Special

Classic tunes for the whole family. May 5, 1 & 4pm, free (3 yrs and under)/ ¥5,000 (gen).

Tokyo Midtown Hall. Nearest stn: Roppongi. Tel: 0570-550799. www.kyodotokyo.com/ lesfreres

James K

Performing classic movie songs. May 5, 2pm, ¥4,200.

Ginza Jujiya Hall. Nearest stn: Ginza or Yurakucho.

Tel: 03-3535-1028. www.hall.ginzajujiya.com

Yoshi Ikuzo

Yoshi Ikuzo's first live at Cotton Club. May 7, 7pm, ¥15,000. Cotton Club. Nearest stn: Tokyo. Tel: 03-32151555. www.cottonclubjapan. co.jp/en/

Thomas Enhco Trio

New album Fireflies release show. May 8, 7 & 9pm, ¥4,000.

Motion Blue. Nearest stn: Bashamichi. Tel: 045-2261919. www.motionblue.co.jp

Ryutaro Makino

R.M. jazz quintet with special guest. May 9, 7 & 9pm, ¥3,600.

Motion Blue. Nearest stn: Bashamichi. Tel: 045-2261919. www.motionblue.co.jp

Michel Camilo & Tomatito Latin jazz piano and flamenco guitar. May 9, 7 & 9:30pm; May 10, 6 & 9pm, ¥9,800-11,800.

Billboard Live. Nearest stn:

Roppongi. www.billboardlive.com

stn: Tokyo. Tel: 03-3215-1555. www.cottonclubjapan.co.jp

Chihiro Yamanaka Israel Trio

Wouter Hamel

Jazz pianist and composer with others. May 10, 5 & 8pm, ¥6,800. Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-54850088. www.bluenote.co.jp

A great mix of pop and jazz from the Netherlands. May 23, 7 & 9:30pm, ¥5,800-7,800.

Billboard Live. Nearest stn: Roppongi. www.billboard-live.com

Blue Mt. Boys

Harvey Mason

Akane Matsumoto

Chuck Loeb's Silhouette Band

Classical country–and– western and bluegrass music.

May 10, 6:30 & 7:30pm, free.

Cafe Sepia. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3406-1300. www.nagaremono.com/sepia Jazz pianist. May 10, 2 & 3pm, ¥2000. Softwind. Nearest stn: Roppongi. Tel: 03-6808-7337. http://www.softwind.jp/

Machiko Miura with Machiko Group

Rhapsody in Yokohama. May 12, 7 & 9pm, ¥4,500. Motion Blue. Nearest stn: Bashamichi.

Tel: 045-226-1919. www.motionblue.co.jp

RaFa Orchestra

American jazz drummer. May 26-May 27, various times, ¥8,500. Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-54850088. www.bluenote.co.jp

Super guitarist with others.

May 28-30, various times, ¥8,000-10,000. Cotton Club.

Nearest stn: Tokyo.

Tel: 03-3215-1555. www.cottonclubjapan.co.jp

Tony Guppy

Drift away to the world of Caribbean jazz. May 28, 8 & 9:30pm, ¥3,000. Softwind.

Nearest stn: Roppongi. Tel: 03-6808-7337. www.softwind.jp

Exciting mix of jazz, house and dance by Resmus Faber and guests. May 12, 7 & 9:30pm, ¥5,800-7,800. Billboard Live.

Nearest stn: Roppongi. www.billboard-live.com

Enginez

Joshua Jazz Redman Quartet

Simon Phillips

Modern saxophonist. May 14-16. various times, ¥8,00010,000. Cotton Club. Nearest stn: Tokyo. Tel: 03-3215-1555. www.cottonclubjapan.co.jp

English jazz, pop and rock drummer. May 30-31, various times, ¥8,500. Blue Note.

Nearest stn: Omotesando.

Tel: 03-5485-0088. www.bluenote.co.jp

Uit Nederland

Simon Phillips

Saxophone player from Rotterdam. May 14, 7 & 9pm, ¥3,200. Motion Blue. Nearest stn: Bashamichi. Tel: 045-2261919. www.motionblue.co.jp

Fabrizio Bosso

Italian trumpet player. May 14-15, various times, ¥7,800.

Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-54850088. www.bluenote.co.jp

Joao Lyra Especial

Brazilian music. May 15, 7 & 9pm, ¥5,000. Motion Blue.

Nearest stn: Bashamichi.

Tel: 045-226-1919. www. motionblue.co.jp

One night special show. May 29, 7 & 9pm, ¥3,000. Motion Blue. Nearest stn: Bashamichi.

Tel: 045-226-1919. www.motionblue.co.jp

Featuring Andy Timmons, Steve Weingart, and Ernest Tibbs. Jun 1-2. various times, ¥8,500-10,000. Cotton Club. Nearest stn: Tokyo.

Tel: 03-3215-1555. www. cottonclubjapan.co.jp/en/

CLASSICAL Yukio Yokoyama

Performing 217 Chopin pieces in total. May 3-4, 11am, 1 & 6pm; ¥3,500-16,000. Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall.

Nearest stn: Hatsudai or Shinjuku. Tel: 03-5353-9999. www.operacity.jp/concert

Naruyoshi Kikuchi and Pepe Tormento Azucarar

Final Fantasy VI, VII, and X

The Gospel According to Jazz

Piano Duo Festival

Greatest hits album release party. May 16, 6:30 & 9:30pm, ¥6,500. Motion Blue. Nearest stn: Bashamichi.

Tel: 045-226-1919. www.motionblue.co.jp

Kirk Whalum and others.

May 16-18, various times, ¥8,000. Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-54850088. www.bluenote.co.jp

Mary Black

Final world tour. May 19-20, various times, ¥8,000-10,000.

Cotton Club. Nearest stn: Tokyo. Tel: 03-3215-1555. www.cottonclubjapan.co.jp

Segi Takamasa

Special one night collaboration. May 20, 7 & 9pm, ¥4,500. Motion Blue.

Nearest stn: Bashamichi.

Tel: 045-226-1919. www.motionblue.co.jp

Jack DeJohnette Trio

Jazz drummer. May 20-22, various times, ¥8,500. Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando.

Tel: 03-5485-0088. www.bluenote.co.jp

Yoko Sano

Birthday performance. May 21, 7 & 9pm, ¥3,600. Motion Blue.

Nearest stn: Bashamichi.

Tel: 045-226-1919. www.motionblue.co.jp

Aquapit

Jam band of popular players.

May 23, 6:30 & 9pm, ¥5,4007,500. Cotton Club. Nearest

Famous songs from the popular game conducted by Eckehard Stier with the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra. May 4, 2pm, ¥6,800-8,800. Tokyo Bunka Kaikan. Nearest stn: Ueno. Tel: 050-5533-0888. http://www.t-bunka.jp Performances in memory of the Tohoku Earthquake. May 4, 3pm, ¥3,000-4,000. Tokyo Opera City Recital Hall. Nearest stn: Shinjuku or Hatsudai.

Tel: 03-5353-9999. www.operacity.jp

Evgeny Kissin

Solo pianist recital. May 1, 7pm; May 4, 3pm, ¥6,50018,500. Suntory Hall. Nearest stn: Roppongi-itchome. Tel: 045-682-2000. www.suntory. co.jp/suntoryhall

Beethoven and Tchaikovsky

With Kenichiro Kobayashi and the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra. May 5, 2pm, ¥3,000-5,000. Showa University of Music. Nearest stn: Shinyurigaoka.

Tel: 044-952-5024. www.artericca-shinyuri.com

Vienna Boys' Choir

Featuring "Hikouki-gumo" and other classic songs by Yumi Arai. May 5, 2pm; May 6, 2pm, ¥1,500-7,000. Suntory Hall. Nearest stn: Roppongiitchome. Tel: 03-57743040. www.suntory.co.jp/ suntoryhall

Piano for Infants to Adults Pianist Keisuke Shimatani

entertains young audiences.

May 6, 11:30am & 2:30pm, ¥2,500-3,000. Tokyo Opera City Recital Hall. Nearest stn: Shinjuku or Hatsudai.

Tel: 0120-649-041. www.operacity.jp

Boston Symphony Orchestra

Lorin Maazel conducts works

by Tchaikovsky and others.

May 8, 7pm, ¥19,000-35,000.

Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre.

Nearest stn: Ikebukuro. Tel: 03-3572-4311. www.geigeki. jp. May 9, 7pm; May 10, 6pm, ¥13,000-38,000. Suntory Hall. Nearest stn: Roppongiitchome. Tel: 0570-550017. www.suntory.co.jp/ suntoryhall

Hiroko Nakamura

Piano concert. May 9, 1:30pm, ¥5,800. Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall. Nearest stn: Hatsudai or Shinjuku.

Tel: 03-5353-9999. www. operacity.jp/concert/index. php

Dragon Quest VIII

Classical songs from the famous game. May 10, 2pm, ¥4,000-5,000. Olympus Hall Hachioji. Nearest stn: Hachioji. Tel: 042-621-3005. www.olympus.hall-info.jp

Mother's Day Concert

Flute and harp duo. May 11, 2pm, ¥4,200. Ginza Jujiya Hall. Nearest stn: Ginza or Yurakucho.

Tel: 03-3535-1028. www.hall.ginzajujiya.com

Yomiuri Nippon Symphony Orchestra

Conducted by Vassily Serafimovich Sinaisky.

May 12, 7pm, ¥3,600-7,200.

Suntory Hall. Nearest stn: Roppongi-itchome. Tel: 0570-55-0017. www.suntory. co.jp/suntoryhall

Taro Hakase

With violinist Maxim Vengerov. May 13, 7pm, ¥12,800. Suntory Hall.

Nearest stn: Roppongiitchome. Tel: 0570-550017. www.suntory.co.jp/ suntoryhall

Organ Promenade Concert

Performed by Octavian Saunier. May 15, 12:15pm, free. Suntory Hall. Nearest stn: Roppongi-itchome. Tel: 0570-55-0017. www.suntory. co.jp/suntoryhall

Spanish Serenade

Spanish dinner and performance by Tokyo Sinfonia. May 16, 6:30pm, ¥9,335 (adv). The Foreign Correspondents' Club of Japan. Nearest stn: Hibiya or Yurakucho. info@ tokyosinfonia.com. www. tokyosinfonia.com

Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra

Conducted by Alberto Zedda.

May 16, 7pm, ¥6,200-7,200.

Suntory Hall. Nearest stn: Roppongi-itchome. Tel: 0570-55-0017. www.suntory. co.jp/suntoryhall

Spring Concert 2014

Yokohama City University Orchestra. May 18, 7:30pm, ¥1,500. Suntory Hall. Nearest stn: Roppongi-itchome. Tel: 0570-55-0017. www.suntory. co.jp/suntoryhall

Teatro Dell'opera Di Roma: Nabucco

Nabucco conducted by Riccardo Muti. May 20, 6:30pm, ¥8,000-54,000.

Tokyo Bunka Kaikan. Nearest stn: Ueno. Tel: 03-3791-8888. www.roma2014.jp

Lunchtime Organ Concert

With Octavian Saunier. May 22, 12:15pm, ¥500. Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre.

Nearest stn: Ikebukuro. Tel: 03-5391-2111. 0570-010-296

Etsuko Terada

Performing Chopin on piano.

May 22, 7pm, ¥3,500-6,000. Kioi Hall. Nearest stn: Yotsuya.

Tel: 03-5276-4500. www.kioi-hall.or.jp/en

Tsuyoshi Tsutsumi Cello Recital

Songs to pass on to the next generation. May 24, 2pm, ¥1,500-4,000. Saitama Arts Theater. Nearest stn: Yonohonmachi. Tel: 048-8585500. www.saf.or.jp

Baroque Organ Music & Wine

Hatsudai. Tel: 0120-489-459. www.nntt.jac.go.jp

The Mystery of Edwin Drood

The Tony Award-winning musical based on Charles Dickens' unfinished "whodunnit" solved by the audience. May 15-16, 7pm; May 17, 1pm; May 18, 1 & 7pm, ¥2,500 (students)/ ¥4,000 (adv)/ ¥4,500 (door).

Theater Sun Mall. Nearest stn: Shinjukugyoenmae.

Tel: 03-3352-5577. www.tokyoplayers.org

Organist Minako Tsukatani performs as selection of wines and canapés is served. May 24, 6:30pm, ¥3,980 (adv)/ ¥5,980 (door). L'Atelier Baroque Sengoku. Nearest stn: Sengoku. pat_japan@hotmail.com. http://meturl.com/specwine

Rakugo in English

Yuko Tajima

Arabella

Italian opera songs with piano.

May 24, 3pm, ¥5,200. Ginza Jujiya Hall. Nearest stn: Ginza or Yurakucho. Tel: 03-3535-1028. www.hall.ginzajujiya.com

Teatro Dell'opera Di Roma: Simon Boccanegra Simon Boccanegra conducted

by Riccardo Muti. May 25, 3pm; May 27, 6:30pm; May 31, 3pm, ¥8,000-54,000. Tokyo Bunka Kaikan. Nearest stn: Ueno.

Tel: 03-3791-8888. www.roma2014.jp

Mikhail Pletnev

Piano recital. May 27, 7pm; May 29, 7pm, ¥5,000-12,000.

Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall. Nearest stn: Hatsudai or Shinjuku. Tel: 03-5353-9999. www.operacity.jp/concert

Barbara Frittoli

Soprano recital. Jun 4, 7pm, ¥4,000-15,000. Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall. Nearest stn: Hatsudai or Shinjuku. Tel: 03-3791-8888. www.nbs.or.jp

Stage Macbeth

Shakespeare's dark tale in operatic form. May 2, 6:30pm; May 3-4, 2pm, ¥2,000-18,000.

Tokyo Bunka Kaikan. Nearest stn: Ueno. www.nikikai.net/english

L'immédiat

Camille Boitel's visual commentary of modern time mayhem. May 3, 7pm; May 4 & 6, 3pm; May 5, 5pm, ¥1,000-5,200 (adv). Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre. Nearest stn: Ikebukuro. Tel: 0570-010296. www.geigeki.jp

Hans was Heiri

Performers negotiate shifting ground on a tilting stage. May 9, 7:30pm; May 10-11, 1pm, ¥1,000-5,200 (adv). Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre. Nearest stn: Ikebukuro. Tel: 0570-010296. www.geigeki.jp

Fuerza Bruta

Postmodern theater show from Buenos Aires. Until Jun 8, various times, ¥8,800 (adv)/ ¥9,800 (door). Akasaka Sacas.

Nearest stn: Akasaka. www. fuerzabruta.jp

Ovo - Cirque du Soleil

Traditional humorous storytelling and daikagura juggling. May 17, 1pm, free.

Shinjuku Bunka Center.

Nearest stn: HigashiShinjuku. Tel: 03-3350-1141. http://rakugo-in-english.com Operatic tale of two sisters and their dreams of romance.

May 22 & 28, 6:30pm; May 25, 31 & Jun 3, 2pm, ¥5,40026,250. New National Theatre Tokyo. Nearest stn: Hatsudai.

Tel: 03-5352-9999. http://nntt.jac.go.jp

Kafka on the Shore

One of Haruki Murakami's best works adapted for the stage. Japanese only. Until Jun 7, various times, ¥7,0009,800. Saitama Arts Theater.

Nearest stn: Yonohonmachi.

Tel: 0570-064-939. www.saf.or.jp

Rokumeikan

Japanese dramatic opera about the love-hate relationship of a parent and child. Jun 19-20, 6:30pm; Jun 21-22, 2pm, ¥3,150-16,200.

New National Theatre Tokyo.

Nearest stn: Hatsudai. Tel: 03-5352-9999. http://nntt.jac.go.jp

Kodo: Mystery

Re-interpretation of Japanese traditional taiko. Jun 21, 4pm; Jun 22-23, 3pm; Jun 24, 6pm; Jun 25, 2pm, ¥3,000 (students)/ ¥7,000 (gen).

Asakusa Public Hall. Nearest stn: Asakusa. Tel: 03-38447491. www.kodo.or.jp

Dance Burn the Floor: Dance with You

High-voltage dance experience. May 2-7, various times, ¥7,500-12,000. Theatre Orb. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 0570-00-3337. www.ktv.jp/btf

The Peacock

Yang Liping's lauded dance drama. May 23-Jun 1, various times, ¥5,500-12,000.

Bunkamura Orchard Hall.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.bunkamura.co.jp

Himawari

Annie

Dance Archives in Japan: A Door to the Future

Story of love, adultery and revenge in Sicily. May 14 & 21, 7pm; May 17, 24, 27 & 30, 2pm, ¥5,250-26,250. New National Theatre Tokyo. Nearest stn:

WHERE THERE ARE NO STRANGERS, ONLY FRIENDS YOU HAVE YET TO MEET!

Musical featuring some of Michael Jackson's greatest hits. Until Jun 8, various times, ¥5,500-8,500. Blue Theater. Nearest stn: Roppongi. Tel: 03-5414-3255. www.thrillerlive.jp

Condors Dance Company presents another contemporary spectacular.

May 24, 2 & 7pm; May 25, 3pm, ¥2,000-5,000. Saitama Arts Theater. Nearest stn: Yonohonmachi. www.saf.or.jp/en

Cavalleria Rusticana

www.dubliners.jp

Thriller Live

Revolutionary troupe that blends circus arts and street entertainment. Until May 11, various times, ¥4,500-12,000.

Odaiba Big Top, Odaiba. Nearest stn: Tokyo Teleport. www.fujitv.co.jp/events/ovo Musical about a redhead who loves tomorrow. Until May 11, various times, ¥6,800-8,500.

Aoyama Round Theater.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.aoyama.org/english

We welcome all kinds of parties.

Please contact us.

Each branch has different hours.

Shinjuku

2F Shinjuku Lion Hall 3-28-9 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku 03-3352-6606 | sali3292@sapporo-lion.co.jp http://r.gnavi.co.jp/g209300/

Ikebukuro

Shibuya

2F Dogenzaka Center Bldg.

2-29-8 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku 03-5459-1736 |sali6581@sapporo-lion.co.jp http://r.gnavi.co.jp/g008214/

Akasaka

B1 Sun Gorou Bldg.

1-10-8 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku 03-5951-3614 | sali2709@sapporo-lion.co.jp http://r.gnavi.co.jp/g029000/

B1 Sannou Park Tower 2-11-1 Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku 03-3539-3615 | sali2645@sapporo-lion.co.jp r.gnavi.co.jp/g008233/ Closed: Sat., Sun., & Holidays

Shinagawa

Shinagawa Mitsubishi Bldg.

B1F Grand Passage 2-16-3 Kounan, Minato-ku 03-6718-2834 | sali6654@sapporo-lion.co http://r.gnavi.co.jp/g008220/

A look back into the 100-year history of modern dance in Japan.Jun 7, 3pm; Jun 8, 3pm, ¥3,150-5,250. New National Theatre Tokyo.

Nearest stn: Hatsudai.

Tel: 03-5352-9999. www.nntt.jac.go.jp/english

The Prince of the Pagodas

Ballet homage to Japan.

#1049 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 13

Listings Jun 12, 7pm; Jun 13 & 15, 2pm; Jun 14, 2 & 7pm, ¥3,150-12,960. New National Theatre Tokyo. Nearest stn: Hatsudai. Tel: 03-5352-9999. nntt.jac.go.jp

Panorama

Accounting • Auditing • IPO Consulting • Due Diligence

Visa Attorney Tax • Corporate • Tax Preparation Services • Tax Consulting • Immigration • US Tax Filing Services • Accounting Services • Payroll Services

More Than Twenty Years Experience

KASAI CPA 042-401-0342

Takashi Kasai CPA Firm 4-1-2-302 Honcho, Kokubunji-shi, Tokyo support@kasaicpa.com www.kasaicpa.com

The Society of Wives of Arab Ambassadors (SWAAJ) and Heads of Missions in Japan The 16th Arab Charity Bazaar

May 18, 2014

Tokyo prince Hotel ¥2,000 | 11am-4pm

Experience Arabic culture, food, calligraphy, henna art and win fabulous raffle prizes including airline tickets!

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Soma School for the Disabled in Fukushima and the Youth Welfare Center in Tokyo.

Compagnie DCA performs under the direction of Philippe Decouflé. Jun 13, 7:30pm; Jun 14, 3pm; Jun 15, 3pm, ¥1,000-5,000. Saitama Arts Theater. Nearest stn: Yonohonmachi. www.saf.or.jp/en

Paint it India Vol.2

Indian classical dance with Taiwanese artists. Jun 20, 7pm, ¥3,000 (adv)/ ¥3,500 (door) /¥5,000 (w/ workshop).

Roma Rakuda. Nearest stn: Higashi-Nakano. padma. odissi@gmail.com. http:// meturl.com/paintitindia

Tokyo Prince Hotel, 3-3-1 Shiba-koen, Minato-ku, Tokyo

今年は"にほんごをもの"にする EVERGREEN LANGUAGE SCHOOL

D A I LY CO N V E R S AT I O N A N D B U S I N E S S J A PA N E S E

APPLY NOW FOR SUMMER COURSE!

* ONE MONTH INTENSIVE * 2 DAYS & 3 DAYS A WEEK 2014 Oct term * PRIVATE & COMPANY student VISA * BUSINESS JAPANESE registration open!! * PREP FOR JLPT (N1,2,3) * COLLEGE VISA COURSE

www.evergreen.gr.jp YUTENJI 03-3713-4958 JIYUGAOKA 03-3723-4785

Air

Glamorous. All human mix.

From midnight, 10pm.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.air-tokyo.com

Brand Tokyo

Tokyo Allmix Party. All mix: DJs U5, Ando, etc. From 8pm, (m)¥3,000 w/2d, (f)¥2,000 w/2d. Nearest stn: Roppongi. Tel: 03-3408-1111. brandtokyo.net

Module

Voiski. Techno, house: DJs Voiski, Gonno, etc. From 10pm, ¥3,000. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.module-tokyo.com Danny Krivit. House: DJ Danny Krivit and more.

From 10pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Omotesando.

Tel: 03-6434-0968. meturl.com/origamiclub Hyper Society. Electro, house: DJs Tanaka, Verbal, etc. From 10pm, (m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)¥2,500 w/1d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.vision-tokyo.com

The New Matrix Bar

Matrix Friday. Old school hip-hop, west side, south side, all mix: DJ Ykk and more. From 6pm, ¥1,000 (after 11:30pm). Nearest stn: Roppongi. www.matrixbar.jp

The Room

Breakthrough. Hip-hop: DJs Jin, Masaya, etc. From 10pm, ¥2,500 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.theroom.jp

Womb

info@evergreen.gr.jp

SATURDAY 3 Ageha

Shangri-La. Gay night: DJs Chus, Ceballos, etc. From 11pm, ¥4,000. Nearest stn: Shinkiba. www.ageha.com

Air

http://metropolis.co.jp/subscription 14 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

The New Matrix Bar

Saturday Night Fever. Hip-hop, R&B, reggae: DJ Ykk and more.

From 6pm, ¥1,000 (after 10pm). Nearest stn: Roppongi. www.matrixbar.jp

The Room

Shuya Okino. Tamariba style.

From midnight, ¥2,500 w/1d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.theroom.jp

Unit

Womb

Agepa. All mix: DJs Kaori, U5, etc. From 11pm, (m)¥3,000, (f)free. Nearest stn: Shinkiba. www.ageha.com

FREE TRIAL LESSON

For the cost of postage get Metropolis on your doorstep—and have ransom note material for decades.

Rave Vision. Edm: DJs Noisecontrollers, Daishi Dance, etc. From 10pm, (m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)¥3,000 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.vision-tokyo.com

FRIDAY 2

Sterne. Techno: DJs Heiko Laux, Ishino, etc. From 11pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp

03-3713-4958

Sound Museum Vision

Ageha

Clubbing

Sound Museum Vision

Since 1949

From 6pm, ¥1,500 w/1d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.rubyroomtokyo.com

Club Park 2. Electro: DJs Bambounou, 80kidz, etc. From 10pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Daikanyama. www.unit-tokyo.com

Origami

For tickets, contact the Embassy of the State of Kuwait: 03-3455-0361

GO TO WWW.METURL.COM/LISTINGS

Disco! Disco!! Disco!!! Disco, house: DJs Daniel Wang, Nori, etc. From 10pm, ¥3,000.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.air-tokyo.com

Module

Spacegathering. Techno, trance: DJs Ree K, Masa, etc.

From 11pm, ¥2,500 w/1d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.module-tokyo.com

Ruby Room

Dosco. DJ Gol and more.

06s. Drumnbass: DJs Friction, Aki, etc. From 11pm, ¥3,500.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp

SUNDAY 4 Ageha

Asobinite!!! Electro, house: DJs Nakata, Rasmus Faber, etc.

From 11pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Shinkiba. www.ageha.com

Air

Man from Tomorrow. Techno: DJs Jeff Mills, Yogurt, etc.

From 11pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.air-tokyo.com

Module

Total Eclipse. Techno, house: DJs Foog, Tanabe, etc. From 10pm, ¥2,500 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.module-tokyo.com

Sound Museum Vision

Classics. Hip-hop: DJs Krush, Kensei, etc. From 10pm, (m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)¥3,000 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.vision-tokyo.com

The Room

In the Midnight Jungle Groove.

Afro beats: DJs Osada, Sato, etc. From 11pm, ¥2,000 w/1d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.theroom.jp

Velours

Cream. Hip-hop: DJs Shunsuke, Tsukasa, etc. From 10pm, (m)¥1,500 w/1d, (f)¥1,000 w/free drinks. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-57784777. www.velours.jp

Womb

Intergalactic. House: DJs Taku, Osawa, etc. From 11pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp

MONDAY 5 Ageha

The Wonderland. Edm, dubstep: DJs Steve Aoki, Kentaro, etc.

From 11pm, ¥5,980 (adv).

Nearest stn: Shinkiba. www.ageha.com

Air

Red. Electro, techno: DJs Nakata, Uchida, etc. From 10pm, ¥3,000 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.air-tokyo.com

Module

Wave Night 1986. Electro: DJs Alloapm, Keenhouse, etc. From 10pm, ¥3,000 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.module-tokyo.com

Sound Museum Vision

Techno Invader. Techno: DJs Ishino, Ken Ishii, etc. From 10pm, (m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)¥2,500 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.vision-tokyo.com

The Room

Spirit of the Boogie. Disco, boogie: DJs Seki, Kuroda, etc.

From 11pm, ¥2,500 w/1d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.theroom.jp

Velours

Wm. Edm, house: DJs Hi6, Lisachris, etc. From 10pm, ¥2,500 w/1d. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-57784777. www.velours.jp

Womb

Arpa Showcase. House, techno: DJs Nobu, Sodeyama, etc. Live: Recondite. From 11pm, ¥3,500.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp

TUESDAY 6 Air

Outline. Electronica, techno: DJ Inner Science and more.

From midnight, ¥2,500.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.air-tokyo.com

Module

Bio. House: DJs Yotte, Billy, etc. From 5pm, ¥2,000 w/1d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.module-tokyo.com

Ruby Room

Open Mic. Open Mic. From 7pm, ¥1,000 w/2d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.rubyroomtokyo.com

Womb

Tuemix. Edm, all mix: DJs Alpha One, Mint, etc. From 10pm, (m)¥1,500, (f)free.

Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp

WEDNESDAY 7 Module

Lounge Moo. Electronic, world: DJ Yoshinori Hayashi. From 7pm, ¥1,000.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.module-tokyo.com

The Room

Noi. Bar style: DJs Ai, Niwa, etc.

From midnight, free. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.theroom.jp

Womb

Wedm. Electro, house: DJs Hiroki, Ikezawa, etc. From 10pm, (m)¥1,500, (f) free.

Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp

THURSDAY 8 Air

Vaein. Techno: DJs Vaein, Yamamori, etc. From 10pm, ¥2,000 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.air-tokyo.com

Ruby Room

Jinsei. DJs Raha, Enouh, etc.

From 9pm, free. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.rubyroomtokyo.com

Womb

Mid. All mix, house: DJs Azusa, Kitajima, etc. From 10pm, (m)¥1,500, (f)free. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp

FRIDAY 9 Air

Tujamo. Edm, house: DJs Tujamo, Vivid, etc. From 10pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.air-tokyo.com

Module

R20. House: DJs Shibata, Kj, etc.

From 10pm, ¥2,500.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.module-tokyo.com

Sound Museum Vision

Girls Festival. Hip-hop: DJs Kaori, Kango, etc. From 10pm, (m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)free.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.vision-tokyo.com

The Room

Boogie in Motion. Disco, boogie: DJs Kent, Arni, etc. From 11pm, ¥2,500 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.theroom.jp

FOR COMPLETE LISTINGS Modern Love Showcase meets Kyoka. Techno, ambient: DJs Andy Stott, Demdike Stare, etc.

From 11:30pm, ¥4,000.

Nearest stn: Daikanyama. www.unit-tokyo.com

UPCOMING Ageha

Clash. House, techno: DJs Richie Hawtin, Mochi, etc. May 10, from 11pm, ¥3,500(adv).

Nearest stn: Shinkiba. www.ageha.com

Air

Groundrhythm. Techno, house: DJs Inoue, Takimi, etc. May 10, from 10pm, ¥3,000.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.air-tokyo.com

Module

Back2basic. Hip-hop: DJs Watarai, Yanatake, etc. May 10, from 11pm, ¥2,800 w/1d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.module-tokyo.com

Origami

Jerome Sydenham. House: DJs Jerome Sydenham, Katsuya, etc. May 10, from 10pm, ¥3,500.

Nearest stn: Omotesando.

Tel: 03-6434-0968. meturl.com/origamiclub

Sound Museum Vision

Smv. House, electro: DJs Fumiya, Usus, etc. May 10, from 10pm, (m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)¥2,500 w/1d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.vision-tokyo.com

The Room

Space Jungle Luv. Jazz, rare groove: DJs Tojo, Marcy, etc. May 10, from 11pm, ¥2,000 w/1d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.theroom.jp

Unit

Lef!!! Crew!!! DJs Lef!!! Crew!!!, Atata, etc. May 10, from 11pm, ¥3,000. Nearest stn: Daikanyama. www.unit-tokyo.com

Womb

Nina Kravis. House, techno: DJ Nina Kraviz. May 10, from 11pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp

Sound Museum Vision

Bub. Hip-hop, bass: DJs A-Trak, Sonpub, etc. May 16, 10pm, (m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)¥2,500 w/1d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.vision-tokyo.com

Exhibitions AKASAKA/ROPPONGI 21_21 Design Sight

Kome: The Art of Rice. Mixed media. An exploration into Japan's staple food. Until Jun 15, ¥500-1,000. Open Mon & Wed-Sun 11am-8pm, closed Tue. 9-7-6 Akasaka, Minato-ku. Nearest stn: Nogizaka. Tel: 03-3475-2121. www.2121designsight.jp

Mori Art Museum

Andy Warhol: 15 Minutes Eternal. Almost 700 works by the standard-bearer of Pop Art. Until May 6, ¥500-1,500. MAM Project 020: Gabriel Acevedo Velarde. Mixed media. Until May 6, ¥500-1,500. Open Mon & Wed-Sun 10am-10pm, Tue 10am-5pm. 6-10-1 Roppongi.

Nearest stn: Roppongi. www.mori.art.museum

Suntory Museum of Art

A Visual Revolution in Edo. Illustration. Import of microscopes and other optical devices overturned conventional illustration methods. Until May 11, ¥800-1,300. The Scientific Eye and Visual Wonders in Edo. The birth of intriguing visual effects in Japanese art. Until May 11, ¥1,000-1,300. Open Wed-Sat 10am-8pm, Sun-Mon & hols 10am-6pm, closed Tue. 9-7-4 Akasaka, Minato-ku.

Nearest stn: Roppongi. www.suntory.jp/sma

The National Art Center, Tokyo

Kazumi Nakamura. Acrylic and oil paintings. Until May 19, ¥500-1,000. The Power of Images: The National Museum of Ethnology Collection.

Symbols and totems from around the world. Until Jun 9, ¥500-1,000. The Birth of Impressionism—Freedom in Painting: Masterpieces from the Musée d'Orsay.

Impressionist masterpieces from Paris. Jul 9-Oct 20, ¥800-1,600. Ballet Russes: The Art of Costume. Luxurious and painstakingly made apparel.

Jun 18-Sep 1, ¥600-1,500.

Open Wed-Thu, Sat-Mon 10am-6pm, Fri 10am-8pm, closed Tue. 7-22-2 Roppongi.

Nearest stn: Nogizaka. www.nact.jp

GINZA/KYOBASHI/ TOKYO Bridgestone Museum of Art

HARAJUKU/ AOYAMA Nezu Museum

Ukiyo-e Ota Memorial Museum of Art

Hiroshige Blue: Blue Attracted the World.

Color-themed Edo art. Until May 28, ¥500-700. Sumo Wrestlers in Ukiyo-e. Classic wood prints of big guys who grapple. Jun 1-26, ¥500-700.

Open Tue-Sun 10:30am5:30pm, closed Mon. 1-10-10 Jingumae. Nearest stn: Harajuku. www. ukiyoe-ota-muse.jp

KAYABACHO/KIBA Base Gallery

Craft Gallery, The National Museum of Modern Art

Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo

Idemitsu Museum of Arts Discover the Beauty of Japan IX: Fascination with Japanese Painting. Masterpieces from various eras. Until Jun 8, ¥700-1,000. Open Tue-Thu 10am-5pm, Fri 10am-7pm, closed Mon. 9F Teigeki Bldg, 3-1-1 Marunouchi. Nearest stn: Tokyo. www.tokyo.mae.lu/jp/ node_19876/hana-hito-tokyo

Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum

The Beautiful—Art for Art's Sake: The Aesthetic Movement 1860-1900. Mixed media.

Organized by the Victoria and Albert Museum, London.

Until May 6, ¥500-1,600. Félix Vallotton—Fire Beneath the Ice. Swiss painter influenced

by Japanese woodcuts.

Jun 14-Sep 23, ¥800-1,600.

Wed-Fri 10am-8pm, Tue, Sat & Sun/hols 10am-6pm, closed Mon. 2-6-2 Marunouchi.

Nearest stn: Tokyo. Tel: 03-5405-8686. www.mimt.jp

National Film Center

The Works of Hicozoh Akamatsu and Movie Title Design in Japan. Typography and character styles. Until Aug 10, ¥70-210. Open Tue-Sun 11am-6:30pm, closed Mon. 3-7-6 Kyobashi. Nearest stn: Kyobashi. Tel: 03-5777-8600. www.momat.go.jp

The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo

Reading Cinema, Finding Words: Art after Marcel Broodthaers. Mixed media.

The relationship between photography, films and video in contemporary art and cinema. Until Jun 1, ¥450-850. After the Quake: Thinking about Tohoku III. Mixed media by various artists. Until Jun 1, ¥130-430.

Open Tue-Thu & Sat-Sun 10am-5pm, Fri 10am-8pm. 3-1 Kitanomaru-koen. Nearest stn: Takebashi. Tel: 03-57778600. www.momat.go.jp

e Party

c

co

foo

Sat, May 31

Irises and Wisteria Screens.

Screens that are designated national treasures. Until May 18, ¥1,000-1,200. Tue-Sun, 10am-4:30pm. 6-5-1 MinamiAoyama, Minato-ku. Nearest stn: Omotesando. www. nezu-muse.or.jp/en

Chinese-Style Dresses from Fujishima Takeii to Umehara Ryuzaburo. Oil paintings

by Japanese artists in the early 20th century. Until Jul 21, ¥500-800. Open Tue-Sun & hols 10am-8pm, closed Mon. 1-10-1 Kyobashi, Chuo-ku. Nearest stn: Tokyo.

Tel: 03-5777-8600. www. bridgestone-museum.gr.jp

Flowers: From the Museum Collection. Mixed media.

Floral motifs that change seasonally. Until Jun 1, ¥70-200. Works of Living National Treasures and Great Masters. Ceramics, glassworks, laquerwares and more. Until Jun 1, ¥70-200.

Open Tue-Thu 10am-5pm, Fri 10am-8pm, Sat-Sun 10am-5pm. 1-1 Kitanomarukoen. Nearest stn: Takebashi.

Tel: 03-5777-8600. www.momat.go.jp/english

er,

be

kta

ic,

us

m ils,

Yasuhide Kunimoto.

Paintings that explore individuality and blending into the crowd. Until May 12, free. Open Mon-Sat 11am-7pm, closed Sun & hols. 1-1-6 NihombashiKayabacho. Nearest stn: Kayabacho. Tel: 03-56236655. www.basegallery.com

Fragments: Incomplete Beginnings. Mixed media.

Until May 11, ¥700-1,600.

The Marvelous Real.

Contemporary Spanish and Latin American art from the Musac collection. Until May 11, ¥600-1,100. Tue-Sun, 10am-6pm, closed Mon. 4-1-1 Miyoshi, Koto-ku.

Nearest stn: KiyosumiShirakawa. www.mot-artmuseum.jp/eng

SHIBUYA/EBISU Bunkamura: The Museum

Collection of Museo Poldi Pezzoli: The Aristocratic Palace and its Beauty — Milano the Magnificent Collection of the Nobleman.

Exquisite paintings originally part of a private collection in Italy. Until May 25, ¥700-1,500. Open Mon-Thu & Sun 10am-7pm, Fri-Sat 10am-9pm. 2- 24-1 Dogenzaka. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-5777-8600. www.bunkamura.co.jp

No service charge Hot food and snacks Bookings for up to 50 people

Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography

Robert Capa, the 101st Year: They All Adored Bob. Photography. Daily life in Spain during World War II. Until May 11, ¥700-1,100. A Retrospective on Shimo-oka Renjo. Collection of works by pioneer photographer and painter. Until May 6, ¥500-700. Valleys and Peaks.

Kanmuri Matsujiro and Hokari Misuo's portayal of highs and lows. Until May 6, ¥500-700. Spiritual World. Shrines, temples and festivals. May 13-Jul 13, ¥250-500. Presence or Absence. Sato Tokihiro explores time, space and light. May 13-Jul 13, ¥500-700. Open Tue-Wed & Sat-Sun 10am-6pm, Thu-Fri 10am-8pm, closed Mon. 1-13-3 Mita, Meguro-ku.

Nearest stn: Ebisu. syabi.com

¥300

*4*3-hour

,000 NOMIHODAI: ¥3

For parties and event bookings contact:

03-3441-9970

stickersbar@gmail.com www.stickersinternationalbar.com Social medias:

Toei Asakusa line

JR Gotanda Station (Yamanote Line)

East gate

Sakurada Dori

Exit A6

Azabujuban ➞

Seven eleven Big Echo

Shinagawa-ku, Higashigotanda 1-16-10-4F (1 minute on foot from Gotanda station)

GORGEOUS BAR &LOUNGE CONVENIENT STANDING CASH-BAR AREA SELECTED ALCOHOL & FOOD FROM ¥500

Enjoy Friday night events at P.C.M Start from 7 pm 5/7（WED）Kind of Night DJ: LAVA 5/9（FRI）LAVA BIRTHDAY PARTY DJ: LAVA & More

Champagne Pommery special price ¥1,000

5/16（FRI）REALSOUND of HEARTLAND

Craft Beer from ¥600 *Only in Marunochi

1F Tokia Tokyo Bldg, 2-7-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku.

Nearest stations: Tokyo or Yurakucho. Open: Lunch 11am-2:30pm, Tea 2:30-5pm, Dinner (Mon-Fri) 5pm-4am LO 3:30am, (Weekends and hols.) 5pm-11pm LO 10pm

☎ 03-5222-1251www.miyoshi-grp.com/cardinal/pcm

The Watari-Um Museum of Contemporary Art

Rudolf Steiner: Das Reich der Angeloi. Mixed media works by an Austrian philosopher and social reformer. Until Jul 13, ¥700-1,000. Open Tue & Thu-Sun 11am-7pm, Wed 11am-9pm, closed Mon. 3-7-6 Jingumae.

Nearest stn: Gaienmae. www.watarium.co.jp

DRINKS FROM

La w so n

Unit

International Karaok

ore

m d&

Happy Hour All ¥500!!

Mon-Fri (except Public holidays) Open-7pm. Heineken 1 PINT, The Premium Malt’s 1 PINT, Glasses of wine, Cocktails Enjoy our great selections of Irish and European brews.

Spacious 5F terrace over looking central Shibuya!

Tokyu Plaza

More details

http://failte.jp

5F, Sede Bldg. 1-5-2 Dogenzaka, Shibuya OPEN 5:30pm-2am (Mon-Sat) 3-11pm (Sunday & hols) tel: 03-3476-7776 #1049 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 15

Listings Yamatane Museum of Art

Mt. Fuji, Cherry Blossoms, and Flowers in Spring. Mixed media. Commemorating Mt. Fuji's registration as a World Cultural Heritage Site. Until May 11, ¥900-1,200. Chic Gentlemen and Elegant Ladies: Fashion in Japanese Painting.

Paintings and woodblock prints. Well-dressed men and women from Edo to Showa periods. May 17-Jul 13, ¥800-1,000. Open Tue-Fri 11am-5pm, closed Mon & hols. 3-12-36 Hiroo. Nearest stn: Ebisu. Tel: 03-5777-8600. www.yamatane-museum. or.jp

SHINJUKU/ IKEBUKURO Bunka Gakuen Costume Museum

European Fashion. Rococo for men and children. Until May 24, ¥200-500. Mon-Sat 10am-4:30pm, closed Sun and hols. Shinjuku Bunka Quint Bldg., 3-22-7 Yoyogi.

Nearest stn: Shinjuku. Tel: 03-3299-2387. www.bunka. ac.jp/museum/text/english. html

Sompo Japan Museum of Art

Reflections of Holland: The Hague School and Barbizon. Oil paintings by Dutch masters. Until Jun 29, ¥600-1,000. Tue-Sun, 10am-6pm, closed Mon. 42F Sompo Japan Bldg., 1-26-1 Nishi-Shinjuku. Nearest stn: Shinjuku. Tel: 03-5405-8686. www.sompo-japan.co.jp/ museum

Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery

Will Happiness Find Me? 10 artists from the Ishikawa collection. Until Jun 29, ¥800-1,000. Open Tue-Thu 11am-7pm, Fri-Sat 11am-8pm. 3-20-2 Nishi-Shinjuku. Nearest stn: Hatsudai. www.operacity. jp/en/ag

UENO National Museum of Nature and Science

I wa Jinjutsu. A look into Edo period medicine. Until Jun 15, ¥600-1,500. Open Tue-Thu & Sat-Sun 9am-5pm, Fri 9am-8pm, closed Mon. 7-20 Ueno Park. Nearest stn: Ueno. Tel: 03-3822-0111. www.kahaku.go.jp

The National Museum of Western Art Jacques Callot—Theater of Realism and Fantasy. 17th century prints. Until Jun 15, ¥300-600. Open daily 9:30am-5:30pm. 7-7 Ueno Park. Nearest stn: Ueno. www.nmwa.go.jp

Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum

Best Selection 2014. Mixed media. 27 art groups and associations present works by 151 artists. May 4-27, ¥700-1,000. 8-36 Ueno Park.

Nearest stn: Ueno. www.tobikan.jp

Tokyo National Museum The 800th Memorial of Yosai Roots of Zen: Yosai and the Treasures of Kenninji. Mixed media. Religious artifacts and paintings. Until May 18, ¥700-1,600. Mural Paintings of the Kitora Tumulus.

Pictures from an eighth century grave. Until May 18, ¥400-900. Open Tue-Sun 9:30am-5pm. 13-9 Ueno Park. Nearest stn: Ueno. www.tnm.jp

Ueno Royal Museum

Inspiration—The Curiosity of the Moment. Mixed media by TV show talent-cum-painter.

May 20-Jun 8, ¥700-1,300.

Open Sat-Thu 10am-6pm, Fri 10am-8pm. 1-2 Ueno Park.

Nearest stn: Ueno. www.ueno-mori.org

16 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

GO TO WWW.METURL.COM/LISTINGS FOR COMPLETE LISTINGS OTHER AREAS Hiro Mart Gallery

Solo show by photographer Sebastian Piras. May 14-Jun 22, free. Open Wed-Sun 1-7pm, closed Mon-Tue. 1-30-7 Sekiguchi, Bunkyo-ku Nearest stn: Edogawabashi. www. hiromartgallery.com

Hakone Museum of Photography

Oyako. Portraits of parents and their children by Bruce Osborn. Until Jun 2, ¥300-500. Mt. Fuji. Katsura Endo's portrayal of the ever-changing symbol of Japan. Permanent exhibition, ¥300-500. 10am-5pm, closed Tue (9am-9pm Sat from May to August). 1300-432 Goura Hakonemachi, Ashigarashimogun, Kanagawa. Nearest stn: Gora.

Tel: 046-02-2717. www.hmop.com

Hoki Museum

Hoki Museum Award Exhibition Vol. 1. Paintings.

Until May 18, ¥900-1,800.

Hito Omoi, Hito Omou.

Paintings. Lifelike portraits by contemporary artists. May 22-Nov 16, ¥900-1,800. Open Mon & Wed-Thu 10am-6pm, Fri-Sat 10am-7pm, Sun 10am-5pm, closed Tue. 3-15 Asumigaokahigashi, Midoriku. Nearest stn: Toke. www.hoki-museum.jp

Japan Folk Crafts Museum

Kyushu Ceramics. Traditional pottery from western Kyushu.

Until Jun 8, ¥200-1,000.

10am-5pm, closed Mon. 4-3-33 Komaba.

Nearest stn: Komabatodai. www.mingeikan.or.jp

Makuhari Messe

Space Expo 2014: The Great Challenge of NASA/ JAXA. Extraterrestrial exploration from 1897 until modern times. Jul 19-Sep 23, ¥900-2,500. Nakase 2-1, Mihama-ku. Nearest stn: Kaihin-Makuhari. www.m-messe.co.jp

Miraikan

The Sekai-Ichi. Assortment of surprising and inspiring objects made in Japan. Until May 6, ¥300-1,000. 2-3-6, Aomi, Koto-ku. Nearest stn: Telecom Center station.

Tel: 03-3570-9151. www. miraikan.jst.go.jp/en

National Museum of Japanese History

Various Seasonal Festivals.

Traditional ornaments and accessories. Until May 6, ¥250-420. Earthquakes in Japanese History. Mixed media. A closer look into individual experiences and social impacts of these natural disasters. Until May 6, ¥450-830. Open Tue-Sun 9:30am-4:30pm, closed Mon. 117 Jonai-cho, Sakura-shi.

Nearest stn: Keisei-Sakura. www.rekihaku.ac.jp/english

Okada Museum of Art

Rediscovery of Kitagawa Utamaro: Fukagawa in the Snow.

An array of works by a master artist, including a massive 2 by 3.5 meter painting. Until Jun 6, ¥1,800-2,800. Open daily, 9am-5pm. 493-1 Kowakudani, Hakone-machi. Nearest stn: Kowakidani. Tel: 0460-873931. www.okada-museum. com/en/

Pola Museum of Art

Finding Modigliani: From Parisian Avant-garde to Classicism. Oil paintings and sculptures by the Italian artist. Until Sep 15, ¥700-1,800. 9am-4:30pm. 1285 Kozukayama, Sengokuhara, Hakone-machi. Nearest stn: Gora. www.polamuseum.or.jp

Setagaya Art Museum

Kineo Kuwabara's Photographs: Tokyo Sketches of 60 Years.

A look into everyday Tokyo.

Until Jun 8, ¥500-1,000.

Open Tue-Sun10am-6pm, closed Mon. 1-2 Kinutakoen, Setagaya-ku. Nearest stn: Seijogakuenmae.

Tel: 03-3415-6011. www. setagayaartmuseum.or.jp

Shiodome Museum

French Ceramics at the Time of Impressionism: 1866-1886 — Maturity of Japonisme. Pottery à la française. Until Jun 22, ¥200-800. Open Mon-Tue & Thu-Sun 10am-6pm, closed Wed. 4F Panasonic Tokyo Shiodome Bldg., 1-5-1 HigashiShimbashi. Nearest stn: Shimbashi. Tel: 03-5777-8600. http://panasonic.co.jp/es/ museum/en

Sogo Museum of Art

Thomas and Friends: Picture Book Art. Paintings of the most famous steam engine in the world. Until May 18, ¥300-800. Open daily 10am-8pm. 2-18-1 Takashima, Nishi-ku.

Nearest stn: Yokohama. www2.sogo-gogo.com/ common/museum/

The Museum of Modern Art, Saitama Pablo Picasso: Ceramic Works. Pottery by a master of contemporary art.

Until May 18, ¥800-1,000.

Open daily 10am-5:30pm.

9-30-1 Tokiwa, Urawa-ku, Saitama-shi. Nearest stn: Kitaurawa. www.momas.jp

Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse

Y es-tu? Video and cinematic art by Christian Rizzo. Jun 20-29, free. 1-1, Shinko, Naka-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa. Nearest stn: Minatomirai. www. yokohama-akarenga.jp

Sports ATHLETICS SEIKO Golden Grand Prix May 11, 12:15pm, ¥1,5003,000. National Olympic Stadium.

Nearest stn: Gaienmae.

Tel: 03-3403-1151.

BADMINTON Yonex Open: Preliminary Round Jun 10, 10am, ¥500. Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium.

Nearest stn: Sendagaya.

Tel: 03-5474-2112.

Yonex Open

Jun 11-15, 10am, ¥500-3,000.

Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium. Nearest stn: Sendagaya.

Tel: 03-5474-2112.

BASEBALL Central League

Tokyo

Yakult Swallows vs. Hanshin Tigers. May 3-5, 6pm, ¥500-4,600. Meiji Jingu Gaien. Nearest stn: Harajuku.

Tokyo

Yakult Swallows vs.

Hiroshima Toyo Carp. May 6-8, 6pm, ¥500-4,600. Meiji Jingu Gaien.

Nearest stn: Harajuku.

Interleague

Saitama

Seibu Lions vs.

Yomiuri Giants. May 20, 6pm, ¥600-22,000. Seibu Dome.

Nearest stn: Seibukyujomae.

Tel: 04-2925-1141.

Saitama

Seibu Lions vs.

Tokyo Yakult Swallows.

May 23, 6pm, ¥600-22,000.

Seibu Dome.

Nearest stn: Seibukyujomae.

Tel: 04-2925-1141.

Tokyo

Yakult Swallows vs. Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles. May 25, 6pm, ¥500-4,600. Meiji Jingu Gaien. Nearest stn: Harajuku.

Tokyo

Yakult Swallows vs. Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters. May 28, 6pm, ¥500-4,600. Meiji Jingu Gaien. Nearest stn: Harajuku.

Saitama

Seibu Lions

vs. Chunichi Dragons. May 31, 1pm, ¥600-22,000.

Seibu Dome. Nearest stn: Seibukyujomae.

Tel: 04-2925-1141.

Pacific League

Saitama

Seibu Lions vs.

Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles. May 5, 1pm, ¥600-22,000. Seibu Dome.

Nearest stn: Seibukyujomae.

Tel: 04-2925-1141.

FIGURE SKATING Fantasy on Ice

Jun 7-8, 1pm, ¥7,000-22,000.

Makuhari Messe. Nearest stn: Kaihin-Makuhari.

GOLF Nichirei Ladies

Jun 20-22, 8am, ¥2,000-5,000.

Sodegaura Country Club Shinsode Course. Nearest stn: Honda. Tel: 03-228-2221.

KICKBOXING Krush. 41

May 11, 6pm, ¥4,500-15,000.

Korakuen Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999.

MMA Pancrase 258

May 11, 2:30pm, ¥6,500. Differ Ariake. Nearest stn: Ariaketennis-no-mori.

PRO WRESTLING Noah: One Day Cruise

May 3, 3pm, ¥4,000-7,000.

Differ Ariake. Nearest stn: Ariake-tennis-no-mori.

Tel: 03-5500-3731.

Wrestle-1

May 4, 5pm, ¥4,000-10,000.

Tokyo Dome City Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi.

Tel: 03-5800-9999.

Big Japan: Endless Survivor

May 5, 3pm, ¥3,000-10,000.

Yokohama Cultural Gymnasium. Nearest stn: Kannai. Tel: 045-641-5741.

Zero 1

May 6, 12pm, ¥2,000-6,000.

Korakuen Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999.

Dragon Gate

May 9, 6:30pm, ¥3,000-7,000.

Korakuen Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999.

Dradition: Tatsumi Fujinami

May 11, 12pm, ¥3,000-10,000.

Korakuen Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999.

New Japan

May 25, 3pm, ¥3,500-10,500.

Yokohama Arena. Nearest stn: Shin-Yokohama.

Tel: 045-474-4000.

Wrestling New Classic

May 29, 7pm, ¥3,000-7,000.

Shinjuku Face. Nearest stn: Shinjuku. Tel: 03-3419-0536.

RUGBY Japan vs. Hong Kong

May 25, 5pm, ¥2,000-5,000.

National Olympic Stadium.

Nearest stn: Gaienmae.

Tel: 03-3403-1151.

SOCCER J. League, Division 1

Kawasaki

Frontale vs.

Ventforet Kofu. May 3, 3pm, ¥800-4,600. Todoroki Stadium. Nearest stn: Musashikosugi.

Tel: 044-722-0303.

Omiya

Ardija vs. Albirex Niigata. May 3, 5pm, ¥1,0005,500. NACK5 Stadium.

Nearest stn: Kitaomiya.

Tel: 048-644-7950.

Urawa

Reds vs. FC Tokyo.

May 3, 4pm, ¥1,000-10,000.

Saitama Stadium. Nearest stn: Urawamisono.

Tel: 048-812-1001.

Yokohama

F. Marinos vs.

Gamba Osaka. May 3, 2pm,

¥1,000-5,300. Nissan Stadium.

Nearest stn: Kozuke. Tel: 04-5477-5000.

FC Tokyo vs. Omiya Ardija.

May 6, 1pm, ¥600-6,200.

Ajinomoto Stadium. Nearest stn: Tobitakyu.

Tel: 04-2440-0555.

Kashima

Antlers vs.

Nagoya Grampus. May 6, 3pm, ¥1,400-8,000. Kashima Soccer Stadium. Nearest stn: Kashima Sports Stadium.

Ventforet

Kofu vs. Urawa Reds. May 6, 4pm, ¥700-4,200.

National Olympic Stadium.

Nearest stn: Gaienmae.

Tel: 03-3403-1151.

Kawasaki

Frontale vs.

Kashima Antlers. May 10, 3pm, ¥800-4,600. Todoroki Stadium. Nearest stn: Musashikosugi. Tel: 044-7220303.

Omiya

Ardija vs. Urawa Reds. May 10, 4pm, ¥1,0005,500. NACK5 Stadium.

Nearest stn: Kitaomiya.

Tel: 048-644-7950.

Yokohama

F. Marinos vs.

Sagan Tosu. May 10, 2pm, ¥1,000-5,300. Nissan Stadium.

Nearest stn: Kozuke.

Tel: 04-5477-5000.

FC Tokyo vs. Gamba Osaka.

May 17, 6pm, ¥600-6,200.

Ajinomoto Stadium. Nearest stn: Tobitakyu. Tel: 04-24400555.

Kashima

Antlers vs.

Tokushima Vortis. May 17, 7pm, ¥1,400-8,000. Kashima Soccer Stadium. Nearest stn: Kashima Sports Stadium.

Urawa

Reds vs. Cerezo Osaka. May 17, 2pm, ¥1,00010,000. Saitama Stadium.

Nearest stn: Urawamisono.

Tel: 048-812-1001.

Kawasaki

Frontale vs.

Yokohama F. Marinos. May 18, 3pm, ¥800-4,600. Todoroki Stadium. Nearest stn: Musashikosugi.

Tel: 044-722-0303.

Kurayami Festival

Kirin Challenge Cup

One of the biggest festivals in Japan. Jun 17, all day, free. Hie Shrine. Nearest stn: Tameikesanno. Tel: 03-35812471. www.hiejinja.net

Japan vs. Cyprus. May 27, 7:30pm, ¥1,000-21,000.

Saitama Stadium. Nearest stn: Urawamisono.

Tel: 048-812-1001.

Nabisco Cup

FC Tokyo vs. Shimizu S-Pulse. May 21, 7pm, ¥600-6,200. Ajinomoto Stadium. Nearest stn: Tobitakyu. Tel: 04-2440-0555.

Omiya

Ardija vs. Nagoya Grampus. May 21, 7pm, ¥1,000-5,500. NACK5 Stadium. Nearest stn: Kitaomiya. Tel: 048-644-7950.

Kashima

Antlers vs. Vissel Kobe. May 28, 7pm, ¥1,4008,000. Kashima Soccer Stadium. Nearest stn: Kashima Sports Stadium.

FC Tokyo vs. Sagan Tosu.

Jun 1, 3pm, ¥600-6,200.

Ajinomoto Stadium. Nearest stn: Tobitakyu.

Tel: 04-2440-0555.

Kashima

Antlers vs.

Shimizu S-Pulse. Jun 1, 3pm, ¥1,400-8,000. Kashima Soccer Stadium. Nearest stn: Kashima Sports Stadium.

Urawa

Reds vs. Nagoya Grampus. Jun 1, 3pm, ¥1,0004,500. Saitama Stadium.

Nearest stn: Urawamisono.

Tel: 048-812-1001.

SUMO May Grand Tournament

May 11-25, 8am, ¥3,800-8,500.

Ryogoku Kokugikan. Nearest stn: Ryogoku. Tel: 03-3623-5111.

Masked folk dances, midnight mikoshi parades and horse racing on the streets. Until May 6, various times, free.

Okunitama Shrine.

Nearest stn: Fuchu-Honmachi. www.ookunitamajinja.or.jp

Hinode Festival

Procession performed at twilight, offering a spectacular view from the mountain top.

May 7, 7:30pm; May 8, 9:30am, free. Musashi-Mitake Shrine.

Nearest stn: Mitakesan.

Tel: 0428-78-8500. www.musashimitakejinja.jp

Kanda Matsuri

One of the three great Shinto festivals of Tokyo. May 9-15, vatious times, free.

Kanda Myoujin. Nearest stn: Shin-Ochanomizu or Ochanomizu.

Tel: 03-3254-0753. www.kandamyoujin.or.jp

Sanja Matsuri

Annual festival led by local residents. May 15-18. various times, free. Asakusa Shrine. Nearest stn: Asakusa.

Tel: 03-3844-1575. www. asakusajinja.jp/english

Botan Matsuri

Peony festival in a shrine park. Until May 18, 9am-5pm, ¥500-600. Ueno Toshogu Shrine. Nearest stn: Ueno.

Tel: 03-3822-3455. www. uenotoshogu.com/botan

Tokyo Minato Matsuri

Ride on unusual cruise boats and watch firefighters perform on the water. May 24-25, 10am-5pm, free. Harumi Passenger Terminal. Nearest stn: Kachidoki. Tel: 03-53791336. http://meturl.com/ minatomatsuri

Sanno Matsuri

Forums & Expos International Roses & Gardening Show

Blooming horticulturists' paradise. Until May 16, 9:30am-5:30pm, ¥1,600-2,200.

Seibu Dome. Nearest stn: Seibukyujomae.

Tel: 03-5777-8600. bara21.jp

Beautyworld Japan

Beauty trade fair with over 500 exhibitors. May 19-20, 10am-6pm; May 21, 10am-5pm, free (registration online)/ ¥3,000 (door). Tokyo Big Sight. Nearest stn: KokusaiTenjijo-Seimon. www.beautyworldjapan.com

Batoma Christmas

Christmas-related goods from abroad. May 23-24, 11am-7pm; May 25, 11am-5pm, ¥500.

Laforet Museum.

Nearest stn: Meiji-jingumae. www.batoma.com

Lupicia Grand Marche

Tea as far as the eye can see.

Tastings, discounts and more.

May 31, 9am-6pm; Jun 1, 9am-5pm, free, reservation required. Pacifico Yokohama.

Nearest stn: Minatomirai.

Tel: 0120-93-7799. www.lupicia.com/gm

Festivals

Bazaars & Markets

Spring Grand Festival

Mottainai

Several Shinto ceremonies held to pay respects to enshrined kami. Until May 3, all day, free. Meiji Jingu Shrine.

Nearest stn: Harajuku. www. meijijingu.or.jp/english

Ginza Yanagi Festival

Parades, stalls, theater performances and more.

May 5, all day, free. Nishi Ginza-dori. Nearest stn: Ginza. www.ginza.jp/nishiginza/ yanagi

Crafts and handmade goods on sale, workshops and more. May 3, 10am-4pm, free.

Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall. Nearest stn: Hatsudai or Shinjuku. Tel: 03-5353-9999. www.tokyooperacity.co.jp/ handmade

Earth Day Market

Organic produce, recycling projects and more. May 25, 10am-4pm, free. Yoyogi Park. Nearest stn: Harajuku.

Community TELL Lifeline Walk & Runathon

MAY 18 (SUN), 11AM-4PM The 16th Arab Charity Bazaar

Experience Arabic culture, food, calligraphy and henna art. Win fabulous raffle prizes including airline tickets. Entrance ¥2,000.

Tokyo Prince Hotel, 3-3-1 Shiba-koen, Minato-ku, Tokyo. Info: 03-3455-0361.

Nearest Station: Onarimon Website: http://kuwaitembassy.or.jp/pdf/ bazzar_2014.pdf Tel: 03-3469-6081. www. earthdaymarket.com

Shinagawa Intercity Flea Market

More than 120 vendors.

Sun & hols, 9am-3pm, free.

Shinagawa Intercity. Nearest stn: Shinagawa. http://meturl.com/shinflea

Iidabashi Ramla Market

Every first and third Sun, 10am-4pm, Iidabashi Ramla.

Nearest stn: Iidabashi.

Umi no Koen Flea Market Every third Sun, 10am-4pm, Umi no Koen. Nearest stn: Uminokoen-Shibaguchi. rinpodan@umino-kouen.net Tel: 03-3226-6800.

Walk and runathon to help support a worthy cause.

May 3, 8:30am (registration)/ 10:15am (first race), ¥3,500 (adv)/ ¥4,500 (door). Reception at The Peninsula Hotel, race at Sakuradamon Imperial Palace course. Nearest stn: Yurakucho. www.tellwalkrun.com

Camp Fuji Friendship Festival

Live bands, game booths, military displays and more.

May 10, 11am-7pm (outside)/ 5pm-midnight (club), free. Camp Fuji. 2092 Nakabata, Gotemba, Shizuoka. Tel: 0550-89-6102. www.mccsfuji.com

International Diversity Run

Running event to support women's social progress and deepen mutual understanding between nationalities. May 11, from 8am, free (spectator)/ ¥2,500-4,800 (entry fee).

Shiokaze Park. Nearest stn: Daiba. diversityrunn@ gmail.com. http://amia.jp/ diversityrun

Sofia Century: Unleash Your Inner Power

Discussion on women's issues and feminine energy. May 13, 7pm, ¥4,500. Nippon Zaidan Hall. Nearest stn: Toranomon.

Tel: 03-6229-5111. http://meturl.com/womenlynne

U.S. Embassy Housing Compound Sayonara Sale

Every second Sun, 10am-4pm, Tokyo International Forum Hall C. Nearest stn: Yurakucho.

Tel: 03-3226-6800.

Farewells and useful household goods. May 17, 10am-2pm, free, ID required. U.S. Embassy Housing Compound, 2-1-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku.Nearest stn: Roppongi or Akasaka.

Tel: 03-3224-5590.

Hanazono Shrine Market

Tokyo Yamathon 2014

Best Flea Market

Every Sun, 8am-4pm, Hanazono Shrine. Nearest stn: Shinjuku-sanchome.

Tel: 03-3200-3093.

Ibaraki-ichi

Farm-fresh veg from the north. Every Sat, 7-9am, Roppongi Hills East Court.

Nearest stn: Roppongi.

Tel: 03-6406-5285.

Stitch-n-Bitch

Every Sun, sunrise-sunset, Yasukuni Shrine.

Nearest stn: Kudanshita.

Tel: 03-3261-8326.

Fudaten Jinja Market

Every second Sun, 10am-4pm, Fudaten Jinja. Nearest stn: Chofu. Tel: 04-2489-0022.

Shinjuku Central Park Market Local produce stalls, workshops and live performances. Every Sat, 10am-4pm, Shinjuku Central Park. Nearest stn: Tocho-mae. Tel: 03-25042128. http://meturl.com/ shinjukuparkmarket

Yebisu Marché

Organic fruits and vegetables.

Every first and third Sun, 11am-5pm, Ebisu Garden Place. Nearest stn: Ebisu. www.facebook.com/ YEBISUMarche

TCS Improv Workshop

The weekly Tokyo Comedy Store In the Moment improv workshop, all levels welcome.

See website for more details.

Every Wed, 7-9pm, Our Space Studio. Nearest stn: Hatagaya.

Tel: 03-5770-7401. www. tokyocomedy.com/improv_ comedy_workshop

Other Events Cinco de Mayo Festival

Celebrate the Americas with fun, food and fiesta. May 3-4, all day, free. Yoyogi Park.

Nearest stn: Harajuku.

Tel: 03-3469-6081. www.cincodemayo.jp

Haisai Festa

Okinawa-focused event with movies, dance, music and more. May 3-6, all day, free. La Cittadella. Tel: 044-223-2333. http://lacittadella.co.jp/haisai

Spiral Independent Creators Festival

Over one hundred artists display their works separated into two rounds over four days. May 3-6, 11am-7pm, ¥500-700. Spiral. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-34981171. www.spiral.co.jp

Spring Festa

Oedo Antique Fair

Yasukuni Shrine Antique Market

Regular classes and one-day workshops on basic Japanese-style painting techniques. All classes in English and Japanese. Every Wed and Sat, 11am, 3pm and 7pm. 4B Maruoka Building, 5-49-7 Jingumae. Nearest stn: Meijijingu-mae. www.mariatanikawa.com

Pause Talk

Every second Sun, 5:30am3pm, Nogi Shrine. Nearest stn: Nogizaka. Tel: 03-3478-3001.

Organic farmers’ market. Every weekend, United Nations University.

Nearest stn: Omotesando.

Tel: 03-3456-0960.

Nihonga Class

62nd Yokohama Parade

Nogi Shrine Market

Aoyama Marché

An insight into how to create successful donor relationships.

May 12, 6:30pm, ¥5,000. 4F, JP Tower. Nearest stn: Tokyo. http://jfra.jp/2014/04/10/joy/

Team-based fundraising challenge. June 21, 6:15am, free (spectator)/ ¥10,000 (per team). Tokyo International Forum, Chiyoda-ku. Nearest stn: Yurakucho. www.tokyo-yamathon.com Open forum where creatives can get together and discuss projects, ideas and cultural currents. Every first Mon, Cafe Pause. Nearest stn: Ikebukuro.

Tel: 03-6912-7711. www.pausetalk.org

Japan’s largest outdoor antique market. Every first and third Sun, 8am-4:30pm, Tokyo International Forum Hall C. Nearest stn: Yurakucho.

Tel: 03-5805-1093.

The Joy of Fundraising

Meet fellow knitters, crocheters and sewers to talk, share ideas, eat, drink and create. Every first and third Tue, 7pm, free, Cafe Respekt. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.meetup.com/ TokyoStitchandBitch

Half-Fast Cyclists

Lions and tigers and ships, oh my. May 3, 10:45 & 11:15am, free. Yamashita Park. Nearest stn: Motomachi-Chukagai.

Tel: 045-681-1860. www.yokohama-cci.com Cow milking, sheep herding and duck parades. May 3-6, 9am, ¥800-1,500. 940-3 Tagura, Futtsu, Chiba.Nearest stn: Kimitsu. Tel: 0439-373211. www.motherfarm.co.jp

The Sweets 2014

Selection of desserts and pastries made by two master patissiers coupled with entertainment. May 5, noon, 3 & 7pm, ¥7,500. The New Otani Hotel. Tokyo 4-1 Kioi-cho, Chiyoda-ku.

Nearest stn: Nagatacho. www.newotani.co.jp/tokyo/ gwsweets2014/

Odaiba Hawaii Festival

Bicyclists of all treads meet for slide shows, lectures, ride-planning, etc. Every second Wed, 7pm, free, The Pink Cow. Nearest stn: Roppongi. Tel: 03-6434-5773. cowmail@thepinkcow.com

Hula dancers, singers and more from the land of the lei.

Until May 6, various times, free. VenusFort. Nearest stn: Aoumi. Tel: 03-3599-0700. www.venusfort.co.jp/event/

Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art School

Okinawa Matsuri

Burlesque models pose for artstars and sketching newbies alike with arty socializing. Every third Wed, 7pm, ¥2,000 w/1d.

Studio and Space IVVA. Nearest stn: Harajuku or Meiji-jingumae. www.drsketchytokyo. wordpress.com

Learning Butoh Intensive Workshops

Opportunity to learn from Butoh masters Moe Yamamoto and others. Screenings, lectures, performances and more. May 2-22, 1-9:30pm, ¥45,000 (adv). Academy Otowa.

5-40-15 Otsuka, Bunkyoku. Nearest stn: Gotokuji. butohWStokyo@gmail.com http://butoh-ws.com

Okinawan food, music and mascots. May 10-11, 11am-9pm, free. Yoyogi Park.

Nearest stn: Harajuku.

Tel: 03-3469-6081. http://allokinawa.com

Spring Rose Festival

Over 90 varieties of rose plants, including "Maria Callas" and others. Until Jun 16, all day, ¥70-150.

Kyu-Furukawa Gardens.

Nearest stn: Kami-Nakasato.

Tel: 03-3910-0394.

Manpaku

Annual food fest with local delicacies from all over Japan.

May 17-Jun 2, 10:30am-9pm, ¥400-700 (adv)/ ¥500-800 (door). Showa Kinen Park.

Nearest stn: Tachikawa.

Tel: 042-528-1751. http://manpaku.jp

#1049 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 17

Agenda Movies BY DON MORTON

More reviews and theater details: metropolis.co.jp/movies

PRISONERS

W

hen two six-year-old girls are abducted in broad daylight on Thanksgiving Day and the police release the obvious suspect after 48 hours for lack of forensic evidence, the hothead father of one (Hugh Jackman) kidnaps the guy and tries to torture the girls’ whereabouts out of him. Meanwhile, the police detective who caught the case (Jake Gyllenhaal) methodically tries to disentangle a web of vague clues, alternate suspects and false leads. Jackman and Gyllenhaal do some of their best work here, and are joined by a remarkable cast that includes Terrence Howard, Viola Davis, Melissa Leo, Maria Bello and Paul Dano. This is a prestige whodunit for grownups. It’s compelling, exhilarating, worrisome and scary, with a complex moral core. This one will stay with you. The subject matter makes it not always easy to watch. Think Mystic River or Seven. It’s smartly written (by Aaron Guzikowski) brilliantly directed (by Quebecois Denis Villeneuve, working in English for the first time) and flawlessly photographed by the incomparable Roger Deakins. It creeps you out without manipulation or cheap shocks, and keeps the tension constant (and you guessing) throughout its entire 2:35 running time. (155 min)

LABOR DAY

NEW

THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN 2

NEW

A n e s c ap e d mu rde re r ( Jo sh Brol i n ) gent ly “ p ersuade s ” a damaged, agoraphobic widow (Kate Winslet) and her 13-yearo l d s o n (G a t t l i n G r i f f it h ) to shelter him from his pursuers.

The threat level nosedives when it turns out he’s an accomplished chef, an adept mechanic, and a fair baseball coach. Just the guy to make them all whole again. Okay, you’re thinking “Nicholas Sparks” calculated contrivances, right? Well, no, but the truth is worse. While this weepy is not uniformly awful, it’s a disappointment coming from Jason Reitman, who has delighted us with such groundbreaking films as Juno and Up in the Air. (111 min)

Feels a bit rushed and spends more t i me , e spe cia l ly i n t he third act, on setting up the next sequel than on the story at hand.

Tonally it ’s all over the place, jerking around from high-octane action set pieces to emotional angst-lite to wisecracking comedy to deep tragedy. But on the plus side, the SFX are top-drawer, and the energy and chemistry between Andrew Garfield and real-life squeeze Emma Stone are intuitive and unforced. Dane DeHaan (Chronicle) nicely channels a young Leonardo DiCaprio, and Jamie Foxx does some super-pissedoff villain duty. Overall an entertaining few fanboy hours at the movies. (141 min)

CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER

The W W I I- era , patriotically named hero has been conveniently deep-frozen for a few decades, probably so he can participate in Avengers movies.

It all depends on whether or not you’re into superhero flicks. If you’re not, it’s a lot of noise.

If you are, this is a well-crafted, old-school thriller that’s engrossing but appropriately forgettable. Chris Evans, Samuel L. Jackson and Scarlett Johansson are good, with surprising character depth. And Robert Redford (!) gleefully demolishes his own liberal crusader persona. It ’s also grounded in real-world concerns, from misguided antiterrorism programs to WikiLeaks. (135 min)

18 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

WITHNAIL & I

NEW

Semi-autobiographical 1987 sliceof-life cult fave by actor-turneddirector Bruce Robinson ( Paul McGann) is based largely on his starving-actor period in London in the ’60s, when he hung out with fellow unemployed thespian and full-time wastrel Vivian MacKerrell, here named Withnail and memorably played by Richard E. Grant in a boozy, perpetually angry, now-iconic, comic tour de force. Not much plot to follow; it’s episodic in structure and more about characterizations and situations. Like avoiding the amorous advances of Withnail’s rich gay uncle (Harry Potter uncle Richard Griffiths). Well worth another look. (107 min)

AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY

Not a lot of chuckles, but you see a movie like this for the acting and the fiery, literate dialogue. The far-flung, decidedly dysfunctional Weston family gathers at the old Oklahoma homestead for daddy’s funeral. He committed suicide because dealing with his increasingly shrewish, cancerstricken wife (Meryl Streep as one of the least likable screen characters in memory) was getting in the way of his drinking.

All-star cast blends, supports each other perfectly. Insults are hurled, plates smashed, faces slapped and secrets revealed.

Adapted by Tracy Letts from her own Pulitzer Prize-winning stage play. (120 min)

THE RAILWAY MAN

A former British soldier (Colin Firth) who worked on the Burma “Death Railway” hides his emotional scars well, until his new bride (Nicole Kidman) insists he confront his demons. He discovers that an interpreter for his tormenters back in the day (Hiroyuki Sanada) is alive and well and running a museum in what was once his concentration camp, and travels to Thailand with revenge in mind. (War Horse’s Jeremy Irvine is great as the character in flashbacks to the war.) What ensues is surprising and genuinely moving.

Kind of amazed that it’s being shown in Japan. Maybe the Abe Cabinet should catch a show. Japanese title: Railway Unmei no Tabiji. (116 min)

DARK BLOOD

NEW

A Hol ly wood couple’s Bent ley breaks down in the desert. They are taken in by a young hermit, but shelter turns into captivity when the boy starts eyeballing the woman. River Phoenix died of an overdose in 1993 shortly before shooting was completed, and the film was shelved. But a few years ago, director George Sluizer decided, for reasons of either desperation or egotism, that if he narrated a few of the missing scenes, we could all benefit from it. Jonathan Pryce and Judy Davis are good; they’re pros. River seems, well, stoned. At best a curiosity, at worst a pretentious bore. Should have left it in the can. (86 min)

THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS: CITY OF BONES

The latest YA fantasy franchise wannabe, aimed solely at separating from their allowances the mostly ‘tweeners who’ve read the Cassandra Clare books, is a hodgepodge of elements recycled from better (or just earlier) movies. Before I stopped counting, I spotted rip-offs of Harry Potter, Twilight, Men in Black, Buffy, and even Star Wars. Vampires, werewolves, demons, warlocks, a romantic triangle, a magic cup bestowing immense power, etc., all sewn up with seemingly endless exposition into an incomprehensible, way-too-long whole. Bad news: There are five more books. Good news: I’ll be ignoring them. Japanese title: Shadow Hunter. (130 min)

THE WORLD’S END

The title is the last stop on a heroic 12-pub crawl that Gary and his mates failed to complete back i n t he ’90s , so he co erce s t he old gang into returning to their hometown and taking another shot at it. But they begin to sense a vague difference in their old drinking grounds and the people there. Simon Pegg and Nick Frost are back with director Edgar Wright for another spot-on satire. They had fun with zombies in Shaun of the Dead, and buddy cop movies with Hot Fuzz. Sorry, telling you the target genre this time would spoil your fun. It’s clever, sad, wise and completely original. See it. Cheers, mate.

Japanese title: World End Yopparai ga Sekai wo Sukuu. (109 min)

PRISONERS: ©2013 ALCON ENTERTAINMENT, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; LABOR DAY: © 2012 PARAMOUNT PICTURES. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; WITHNAIL AND I: Ⓒ 1986 HANDMADE FILMS (1985) PARTNERSHIP ; DARK BLOOD: ©2013 SLUIZER FILMS BV.; THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN 2: © 2013 CTMG. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY: © 2013 AUGUST OC FILMS, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS: CITY OF BONES: © 2013 CONSTANTIN FILM INTERNATIONAL GMBH AND UNIQUE FEATURES (TMI) INC..; CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER: © 2014 MARVEL. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THE RAILWAY MAN: © 2013 RAILWAY MAN PTY LTD, RAILWAY MAN LIMITED, SCREEN QUEENSLAND PTY LIMITED, SCREEN NSW AND SCREEN AUSTRALIA.; PARANORMAL ACTIVITY: THE MARKED ONES: © PARAMOUNT PICTURES 2013. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; THE WORLD’S END: © FOCUS FEATURES. ; JACKASS PRESENTS: BAD GRANDPA: © MMXIII PARAMOUNT PICTURES CORPORATION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; FROZEN: ©2014 DISNEY. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. ;THE SECRET LIFE OF WALTER MITTY: © 2014 TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX; THE LEGO © 2014 WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT INC. EIGA: THERMAE ROMAE© 2014「テルマエ・ロマエII」製作委員会

PARANORMAL ACTIVITY: THE MARKED ONES

They’re going to keep making these tired, found-footage cheapies until you stop paying to see them. For this fifth outing, the lack of action moves out of stale whitebread suburbia to target Latino audiences, as a trio of camera-toting teens delves into some spookiness in the ’hood. Borrows more from the vastly superior Chronicle than from its surveillancecam predecessors. Heavy on the “Boo!” moments, if that’s what floats your boat, but not a lot going on here but long stretches of paranormal inactivity, interspersed by a few cheap parlor tricks presented in a nauseating shaky-cam aesthetic. Japanese title: Paranormal Activity: Noroi no Shirushi. (84 min)

JACKASS PRESENTS: BAD GRANDPA

Johnny Knoxville expands his randy Octogenarian character Irving Zisman to feature length.

With a plot, even. Irving reluctantly a g r e e s to d r ive h i s g r a n d s o n to S o u t h C a r o l i n a , wh e r e h i s deadbeat dad has agreed to take him in for the child support he’ll get. Along the way, Irving and Billy (a spot-on Jackson Nicoll) test the social mores of Main Street America, and film with hidden cameras its flummoxed reactions. It’s rude, wrong and outrageous. This is guerilla filmmaking that occasionally reaches Borat levels. I am of course way too urbane and sophisticated for this juvenile trash. Busted a gut. Japanese title: Jackass Kusojijii no America Odan Chindouchu. (91 min)

THE SECRET LIFE OF WALTER MITTY

In a sporadically amusing remake of the 1947 classic from the story

by James Thurber, Ben Stiller is a dull Life magazine photo librarian who wishes he were more exciting so he could woo and win a pretty colleague (Kristen Wiig). While he engages in action-packed, deskbound fantasies, the film is kind of fun. Paradoxically, it’s when he gets all carpe diem and starts having actual, globetrotting adventures that the (admittedly very scenic) film loses traction. As Stiller movies go, this uneven, uninvolving bomb is closer to Night at the Museum than it is to Tropic Thunder. Japanese title: Life! (114 min)

THE LEGO MOVIE

Borrowing its plot from The Matrix, the story centers on Emmet Brickowski, a kind of clueless everyman Lego humanoid who stumbles upon the “ Piece of Resistance” and is recruited (as “The Special”) to save his brightly colored Legoworld from unimaginative corporate villains. His newfound allies include Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Gandalf, Dumbledore, Shaquille O’Neal and a Star Wars quartet. Excellent voice talent. It’s fast, fresh, funny, endlessly inventive and absurdly enjoyable, and all the while encouraging creativity in children. NOTE: Shown in English only at Shinjuku Piccadilly.

(92 min)

FROZEN

The Mouse House take on Hans Christian Andersen’s The Snow Queen is about a queen who, unable to control her magical powers over ice and snow, banishes herself to a distant ice castle lest she harm her younger sister. Okay, this was not made for me. But I found this nicely animated, pro-girl animation diverting, despite featuring no less than eight pedestrian songs. It also adds not one but two new princesses to Disney’s royal arsenal. Disney ain’t dumb. The cute factor is served by a clever reindeer and a magical snowman who pines for the tropical life. “Minimally cloying” is hardly a rave, but there you are.

Japanese title: Anna to Yuki no Joou. (108 min)

eiga

THERMAE ROMAE II

By Rob Schwartz

Y

ou may be familiar with this time slip franchise by now (a theme Japan seems to love). The hit manga by Mari Yamazaki, Thermae Romae, has won many awards, including the prestigious Tezuka Osamu Cultural Award. In 2012, the comic was turned into a massively successful comedic live action feature (reviewed in this space) starring rising talent Hiroshi Abe and grossed around $75 million.

The story concerns Roman bath designer Lucius (Abe) and his trials to carry out his job. Faced with a tough task of building a new bath he discovers a hidden tunnel from a Roman bathhouse that leads to a sento in modern-day Japan. What he learns there helps him solve his work challenges. In this, the second part, the audience is treated to much the same plot: Lucius must design a healing bath for gladiators and again travels to contemporary Japan for inspiration. He again meets up with his love interest Manami (Aya Ueto) and experiences the truly weird and wonderful world of Japan. There’s also a subplot about Rome becoming divided as the Senate opposes the Emperor on extending the empire. Abe’s comedic timing is exquisite and while some of the jokes may be trite and predictable, the laughs are plentiful. As one of the more clever franchises in Japanese entertainment, it deserves its numerous incarnations as an enjoyable comedy-fantasy rich in imagination. (113 min.)

movie news

T

he creation of some of the greatest films ever made such as Apocalypse Now and Citizen Kane have been covered in equally great documentaries. Filmmaker Frank Pavich took a different route, delving into one of the greatest films never made. When Pavich heard that cult director Alejandro Jodorowsky tried to adapt Frank Herbert’s sci-fi novel Dune a decade before David Lynch, he was intrigued. “Once you hear a bit, you have to know more,” Pavich said during a visit to Tokyo. “But you reach the end of the road, and there are no more internet sites or books so the only way to learn more is to find Jodorowsky and his collaborators.” Pavich discovered the maverick assembled a creative team including H.R. Giger, Mick Jagger, Salvador Dali and Orson Welles before funding was pulled at the last minute. Pavich employs music and storyboard images to hint at what might have been and show the director’s remarkable recovery from creative heartbreak. Unveiling the film at the Tokyo International Film Festival, Pavich discussed his subject’s ties with Japan. “When I was first studying him, his movies like El Topo were not available in the U.S.,” he said. “If you were lucky, the best way to see it was on a Japanese Laserdisc.” Jodorowsky’s Dune will screen at Shinjuku’s Cinema Quality on May 17 and again from June 14. Kevin Mcgue

cinematic underground

C

inema Qualite (3-37-12 Shinjuku, Shinjukuku; http://qualite.musashino-k.jp), which opened only last December, has already earned a reputation for the broad range of films it screens. Now the art house will celebrate its own awesomeness with The Cinema Qualite Collection, a mixture of old and new releases, running May 17-June 13. Highlights include Easy Rider, St. Elmo’s Fire, the British true story drama uwantme2killhim? (pictured) and Rewind This!, a documentary on the cultural impact of the VHS, and the people who collect the format in the age of video streaming... Sam Shepard is a revered American playwright who also happens to be a beloved actor. What is less known is that he occasionally gets behind the camera. One of Shepard’s films as a director, Silent Tongue (1993), is screening from May 3 at Eurospace in Shibuya (1-5 Maruyamacho, Shibuya-ku; www.eurospace. co.jp). The Western features one of the last performances of River Phoenix, whose Dark Blood will also be at the theater... In case you still haven’t had enough zombie flicks at this point, the French film Goal of the Dead, which combines brain-eaters with soccer, is screening from May 3 at Human Trust Cinema Shibuya (Cocoti Bldg.

7-8F, 1-23-16 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku; www.ht-cinema.com). KM

Unless noted, Japanese films screen without English subtitles. Non-English-language films are shown with Japanese subtitles only. #1049 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 19

ALL YOU CAN EAT and DRINK for two hours ￥2,700 in downtown Shinjuku!

Enjoy gourmet steak, fish, seafood and a selection of world-class wines with a superb skyline view.

Includes: okonomiyaki, monjayaki, yakisoba, udon, and desserts with drinks (draft beer, sake, plum wine, soft drinks, etc

Reserve our comfortable window-side booth seats looking down on the beautiful night scene of Shinjuku!

Tel. 050-5815-3882 2F Shinjuku Picpek Building, 1-17-13, Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku

OPEN: Everyday from 3PM

20 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

Panasonic

Shiodome City Center

Tokyo’s No.1 nighttime panorama Fresh fish direct from Tsukiji market High-quality Japanese steaks Selection of high quality wines from over 2,000 cellars worldwide Party & wedding catering English service & menu available 41F Shiodome City Center Bldg, 1-5-2 Higashi Shinbashi, Minato-ku

All you can eat

Yakult

Nihon TV Tower

Matsushita Shiodome Eletric tower

LUNCH:

Mon-Sun 11:30am-3pm (LO 1:30pm)

DINNER:

Mon-Sun 5:30pm-11:30pm(LO 9:30pm)

Online Reservation:

www.fish-bank-tokyo.jp

03-3569-7171

BITES

Dining Out

smoke free beans

habanero shochu

Doutor’s recently opened Cafe Lexcel (2-4-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku. Nearest stn: Tokyo.

Open Mon-Sat 11am-9pm, Sun & hols 11am-8pm) represents the next generation of Japanese cafés.

The interior is chic, the environment completely non-smoking and the menu offers alcohol and toasted open-face sandwiches with toppings like smoked salmon and wasabi cream cheese (¥680) or teriyaki-style meatloaf (¥630)—welcome alternatives to the usual baguettes and paninis. But the café’s real focus is the specialty coffee, brewed in a multitude of styles, including hand drip, french press and single espresso (from ¥400). Choose from three types of beans; prices range accordingly.—Lisa Wallin

East meets Amazonas in this double-header from shochu maker Hombo Shu zo. Appropr iately n a m e d S at sum a n o Ha oh Raaa (¥1,524, 500ml)—the latter presumably what the drinker says after the first sip—this fiery beast adds what’s reputedly on of the world’s hottest peppers to 34% A BV imo (sweet potato) shochu. The comp a n y ’s w e b s i t e of f e r s cocktail suggestions for those wanting to adjust t he heat up or dow n, with one of them including Tabasco. For those look ing for somet hing a l it t le le s s piqu a nt , Hombo Shu zo a lso offers its International Wine & Spirit Compet it ion award-w inning A raw a z a Sa k u raji ma s h o c h u . http://raaa . jp/ for more info. Buy online at http://meturl. com/2x —LW

dip & sip Momi no Ki House has been running massage salons for 18 years, with various locations offering shiatsu, ashifumi (back-walking), Ayurveda and herbal ball massage. But if you don’t feel like a full course rubdown , you can drop into one of their four Ashiyu (footbath) Cafés in Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro or Ueno, where you can sip relaxing herbal tea while dipping your feet in hot water for 45 minutes (¥1,050/¥1,260 after 11pm).

For extra comfort, add a yumomi massage at ¥525 for 5 minutes. Each branch has its own theme: In Ikebukuro (7F Daisho Ikebukuro Higashiguchi Bldg., 1-27-8 Minami-Ikebukuro. Nearest stn: Ikebukuro. Open 11am-5am daily), the ashiyu flows like a river through the shop.—Taiichi Izawa

crystal ume

croqonomiyaki

Japanese people are increasingly choosing to dr in k Western-st yle w i ne w it h t hei r d i n ner s—a nd rather than seeking out snacks t h a t m a t c h t h e i r l i q u o r, t he t rend i s b e g i n n i ng to reverse—with drinkers looking for beverages t hat suit t heir hard-cooked cuisine.

This has left traditional purveyors of Japanese alcohol looking for new ways to draw consumers back to the fold.

Su ntor y has ju mped i nto the fray w ith what it calls Nomiwataru Umeshu (¥540, 500m l), which t ranslates literally as “perfectly clear plum wine.” While it looks like water, this sweet-butrefreshing drink packs a 10% alcoholic punch, and makes the perfect match for Japanese (and other!) dishes. —LW

If it looks like toast, it’s toast... except when it isn’t. Case in point: Mini Stop’s latest offering, tsukimiyaki (¥198). It looks like your average croque-monsieur, but is actual fact made with two layers of okonomiyaki pancake with a fried egg on top. Easy to carry in one hand, it makes one of Osaka’s most delicious treats portable and (almost) mess-free when eating. Thinly sliced sausage, cabbage and yamaimo (mountain yam) toppings blend with a soy-sauce-and-katsuostyle dashi for a satisfying experience. There are plans for a different f lavor in June, but rather than mulling over what that will be, ask the more pressing question: Why didn’t they think of this sooner? —LW

roses forever They say a mother’s love is instinctual, unconditional and forever. Mother’s Day may have become a bit cliché due to its commercialism, but it’s still a great chance to remind mom how much we love her. While flowers inevitably end up in the bin after a few days, Lupicia’s Totte Oki Tea Time Set (¥3,720) offers the perfect way to show your appreciation—as well as share in some of the spoils (it’s okay, mom will love us anyway). Offering the aroma of fresh roses without the unfortunate after-effect of having to watch them wilt away, the set includes not only darjeeling tea with real rose petals but also two other types of tea, cookies and a mini-bouquet.—LW

#1049• WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 21

THE LATEST DISH ON FOOD & DRINK IN THE BIG CITY

local flavors

PECK

DAILY BREAD Treats galore at these

Peck is a gourmet shop based in Milan that has branches in Takashimaya department stores. Peck’s focaccia are round, airy discs drenched in olive oil.

The ciabatta has a crispy crust and a light interior— perfect for slicing in half, stuffing and grilling at home for panini sandwiches. Peck has an outstanding selection of Italian sliced meats, cheeses, olives and other staples of an Italian pantry. Shops in Takashimaya Nihonbashi and Shinjuku. http://www.takashimaya.co.jp/shopping/ food/peck/

city bakeries

By Yukari Sakamoto

W

hether your preference is for a traditional French baguette, Italian focaccia or dense German bread, you’ll find something to satisf y your craving in one of Tokyo’s numerous bakeries.

Be sure to keep your eyes out for gentei (limited time offer) items as these bakeries do a fantastic job with seasonal ingredients. Most shops will have a small section of sandwiches as well as stellar patisseries. Here are some of our favorites.

MAISON KAYSER Eric Kayser is famous for using a natural leaven, a fermented mixture of flour and water, instead of yeast. The leaven is much harder to work with, and the results are a bread with richer character.

Maison Kayser excels at croissants, pain au chocolat, croissant aux amandes with a sweet coating of almonds, and the poire caramel, a puff pastry

dough stuffed with a pear mixture that’s been cooked until it caramelizes. There are numerous shops throughout the city and in many depachika (department store basements). www.maisonkayser.co.jp/3.shop.html

GONTRAN CHERRIER So many great things to say about this spot.

Most important is that it opens at 7:30am as a French bakery should. The rustic croissants can be peeled open layer by layer. Gontran Cherrier is brilliant at using local ingredients for unique creations like a matcha (green tea) croissant, a baguette made with squid ink or curry, and a shiso (Japanese green herb commonly served with sushi) sausage.

Shops in Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Nihonbashi Muromachi. http://gontran-cherrier.jp/#shop

restaurant review

CLINTON STREET BAKING COMPANY

Authentic eggs Benedict ooze into Tokyo

By Kevin Mcgue

I

n 1894, legend has it, stockbroker and debonair ladies’ man Lemuel Benedict shuffled through the lobby of the Waldorf Hotel on Fifth Avenue and into the restaurant where he had coffee ever y day before heading to Wall Street.

Nursing a hangover on this particular morning, Benedict skipped his usual order and asked for two poached eggs served over ham and toast, smothered in rich Hollandaise sauce.

Maître d' Oscar Tschirky took note of the concoction, substituted Canadian bacon and English muffins and put it on the menu.

Although this origin story has oft been refuted, what is undeniable is that by the time Mr. Benedict died in 1943 the eponymous dish was a New York institution. And after decades of scarcity, it has become popular in Tokyo in recent years as Japanese warm to the concept of brunch. Perhaps too popular: it even appears in bastardized form on convenience store shelves. So we were excited to learn that Lower East Side hotspot Clinton St. Baking Company had opened a location

22 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

Dining Out

in Minami-Aoyama, bringing true brunch to Tokyo.

We went one morning before work (to beat the lines) and having come to the restaurant for one specific dish, we knew exactly what we wanted to order. The eggs benedict (¥1,600) was presented as neatly as is possible for a dish known for being runny. The Hollandaise was rich and not too lemony, the eggs were firmly poached and we were pleased to discover actual smoked Canadian bacon rather than the perfectly round slices of processed ham that most places try to get away with.

But the best part of the dish was buried at the bottom. The English muffins were dense and somewhat sour, closer to buttermilk biscuits than to the light, air-bubble-laced variety available at supermarkets.

This makes them perfect for soaking up egg yolk and sauce, which of course is their function in the carefully constructed dish.

The dish is also served Montreal style, with smoked salmon filling in for the bacon (¥1,900).

Wanting to explore the menu, we also ordered

BÄCKEREI KAFFEE LINDE Linde is in the busy shotengai just north of Kichijoji station. The selection here is filled with hearty German breads made with rye and whole-wheat flour, some studded with dried fruits or seeds. There are also pretzels and lighter kaiser rolls for sandwiches.

1-11-27 Kichijoji-Honcho, Musashino-shi.

Tel: 0422-23-1412. http://www.lindtraud.com

huevos rancheros (¥1,900), a whole-wheat tortilla topped with beans in a spicy salsa and two sunnyside-up eggs. Separate scoops of jalapeno-infused sour cream, guacamole and pepper jack cheese allow the diner to decide how much of the spicy toppings to use.

Although we were tempted by the “spiked” section of the drink menu—which includes mimosa (¥1,200) and the Clinton St. Bloody Mary (¥1,100)— we ordered a cappuccino (¥600) and a con leche, which is coffee with warm milk (¥550), both of which are made with the same roast used in the New York location.

As with any place in Tokyo that’s new and serves eggs, hundreds of people want to try Clinton Street.

Now that the hype from last August’s opening has died down a bit, it’s become a relaxing breakfast spot. Given its location in one of Tokyo’s fashion and business districts, we like to think Lemuel Benedict would approve.

Around ¥2,000 per person

Entirely non-smoking

Get a widow-side table or counter for some prime people watching

Great takeout baked goods

The wait can be killer

5-17-1 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku. Tel: 03-64505944 (reservations not accepted). Nearest stn: Omotesando, exit B1, B3

Open daily 8am-11pm

http://clintonstreetbaking.co.jp

The majority of classified ads have moved online!

The Blog

NE W !

Think the Classifieds is just ads? Think again! Visit the blog for saucy ads of yore, ideas to make your ads pop, updated prices (hello, free Vehicles ads!), and plenty more Classifieds goodness. http://metropolis.co.jp/classifiedblog

1 AT YOUR SERVICE 1.1 HEALTH B I L I N G UA L US-LICENSED PSYCHIATRIST R Y U K O I S H I K AWA , MD, w i t h extensive clinical experience in both Japan a n d ove r s e a s . Fa m i ly relationship conflicts, cross-cultural human relationship issues (couples, individuals, groups).

M e d i c at i o n a s s e s s m e n t w/diagnostic interviews.

Weekly seminars available.

5min from Omotesando B1 exit . ryupsy@gmail.com 03-6427-4286

SPORTS PHYSIOTHERAPY (physical therapy) care in Hiroo.

Native English-speaking t h e ra p i s t s s p e c i a l i z i n g in sports injuries, p o s t - o p e r a t i v e rehabilitation, back/neck pain, running related, headaches, orthotics, ergonomic consultations and women’s health. www.tokyophysio.com 03-3443-6769

1.2 HAIR & BEAUTY

O N LY C UT ZO N E SALO N provides a hair cut service for only ¥1000.

5min walk from Kita -Senju stn . Friendly English-speaking staff is available. Contact us at 03-3882-1550.

Open from 10am until 7pm, seven days a week. http://meturl.com/ onlycutzone

1.3 MOVING

CLASSIFIEDS

N A R I TA A I R P O R T C A R / MINIVAN TRAN SFER SERVICE. Cheaper than a taxi. English-speaking driver.

Meet and greet. Free baby seat. Luggage assistance.

Dependable-Safe-Easy-Quick Airport Transfer Service. BOOK NOW! Email Reservation@ To k yo A i r p o r t e r. c o m . www.tokyoairporter.com

1.7 BUSINESS SERVICES

THINKING ABOUT ADVERTISING WITH M ETRO P O LI S ? Platinum ¥32 ,400. Gold ¥27,000.

Silver ¥21,600. Prices include one photo. Bronze ¥2000 (photo + ¥2000). Prices are for 40 words, one print issue, two weeks online. For details, visit the Tokyo Classifieds blog - http://metropolis. co.jp/classifiedblog/ - or email us at commercial@ metropolis.co.jp.

AFFORDABLE, HIGHQ UALIT Y, E XPR E S S O FF S ET PR I NTI N G N OW AVAILABLE IN ENGLI SH! Shop/business cards: 1000 copies, 4c/4c 220kg ¥5500.

A6 flyers: 3000 copies, 4c/4c 110kg ¥6300. A5 flyers: 5000 copies, 4c/1c 90kg ¥11,800. Contact wendy@ flyerinsatsu.co.jp or visit http://english.flyerinsatsu. co.jp.

2.2 RENT UNDER ¥200,000

S E K I YA M A U . S . TA X CONSULTING LLC. USCPA OFFICE IN TOKYO. Double taxation relief? Delinquent FBAR? Foreign Tax Credit or Foreign Earned Income Exclusion? Filing with a J a p a n e s e S p o u s e ? Te n percent discount available with 1040 preparations.

English and Japanese ok. w w w. s e k i y a m a t a x . c o m info@sekiyamatax.com 03-5403-4639 VISA COUNSELING: female immigration lawyer handles your visa case.

P e r m a n e n t r e s i d e n c y, naturalization, eligibility ( i n v i t i n g yo u r s p o u s e / children/workers from your country), extension/ change of visa status.

Consultation ¥5000. OFFICE LIFE (Miho Fujibayashi).

Tel: 090-8330-0670 Email: mailto@officelife.jp Website: http://officelife.jp/en/ CREATIVE SOLUTIONS. Specialists in branding, web design, photo/ video production. Drawing A Crowd: a new approach in design. Get in touch. info@drawingacrowd.co

T H E A S P I R AT I O N O F “MIWA” IN DAIKANYAMA is to display the craftsmanship of traditional Japane se art in the contemporary world. Our wish is to present dishes, art and crafts made of urushi, glass and china. www.craftandlife-miwa.com #101, 20-13 Sarugakucho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo TO ADVERTISE IN M E T R O P O L I S , J A PA N ’ S NO.1 ENGLISH MAGAZINE, log on at www.metropolis. co.jp/classifieds or email your commercial ads to commercial@metropolis.co.jp.

2.1 GUESTHOUSE LAW OFFICE IN KAWASAKI (next to Tokyo), member o f t h e Yo k o h a m a B a r Association. Legal service in English for traffic accidents, divorce, inheritance, bankruptcy, business cases (contracts, establishing a company, trademarks, etc.) and other legal problems.

Email: web@smkw.biz www. sumikawa.net/

SAKURA HOUSE. Leading multilingual real estate agency in Tokyo s i n c e 1 9 92 . O ve r 1 6 0 0 furnished apartments a n d g u e s t /s h a re h o u s e rooms, from ¥52,000/m, utilities included.

No key money/guarantor/ agent fee. Contact us: 03-5330-5250 info @ sakura - house .com www.sakura-house.com

APARTMENTS AND H OU S E S FO R RE NT AN D SALE . Shinjuku, Shibuya, Minato-ku, other locations in the Tokyo area ¥50,000¥75,000. Many properties w/no key money, agent fee, guarantor. info@aonisshin. com http://www.aonissin. net/ 03-5348-4486

1.8 GENERAL SERVICES

2 FIND A PLACE

CHEAPEST, QUICKEST AND SAFEST! Transporter Tokyo supports your moving and delivers your stuff. Moving for singles or couples fro m ¥12 ,0 0 0. D e l ive r y (fu rn i t u r e , m o to rb i ke s , etc.) from ¥7000.

Engli sh -, Fre nc h - and Japanese -speaking staff available. Inquiries: info@transporter-tokyo.

Issue 1051 - FRI, MAY 16 Deadline: May 8, 3pm

Metropolis and its subsequent Classifieds section are printed every other week. The upcoming publication dates and corresponding deadlines for print are as follows. This does not affect the online Classifieds, where ads are visible immediately after they are approved.

c o m w w w. t r a n s p o r t e r tokyo.com/english/contact Te l : 0 3 - 6 7 1 5 - 9 3 9 1 F a x : 03- 6715-9392 Address: 3-29-8 Nishi-Rokugo, Ota-ku, Tokyo

1.4 TRAVEL

classifieds.metropolis.co.jp

GREAT LOCATION & SUPER CLEAN. Private furnished rooms in Roppongi, Akasaka, AzabuJuban and Minami-Shinagawa, all 2min from stn, ladies-only floor available, weekly cleaning service, free internet, aircon, fridge. From ¥49,000/m.

No key money/guarantor/ agent fee. 090-2405-0022 mail@bauhousetokyo.com

ICHIGAYA GREEN CORP. Two apartments available in furnished, three-story apartment building, sunny and quiet, south/north facing, many trees, small Japanese garden, 5min walk from subway station, 13min by bicycle to JR Shinjuku/ Yotsuya stn. Rent: ¥100,000/m (2K). Tel/fax: 03-3341-7875 Mail: itto@itto-jinnai.com www.ittojinnai.com/green/greencorp. html

I C H I I C O R P O R AT I O N .

Over 600 affordable, quality-furnished apartments in central Tokyo locations. No key m o n ey/gua ra nto r/a g e nt fee required. New, clean apartments, simple contract system, full English support.

Call us today! 03-5437-5233 www.japt.co.jp

Issue 1053 - FRI, MAY 30 Deadline: May 22, 3pm

Keikyu line: Hatcho-Nawate, 1 5 m in from S hin a g awa .

1K~2LDK ¥58,000/ m~¥120,000/m. Tel: 0449 3 3 -70 0 0 E m a i l : m h @ m i n o w a g r o u p . j p w w w. minowagroup.jp/ minowahomes

SERVICED APARTMENTS in a quiet residential area of Hiroo. Studios and suites. 4min from Hiroo stn. Rates: Daily ¥7800.

Weekly ¥68 50 -/day.

Monthly ¥5700-/day. Over three months ¥5130-/day.

Ta x , u t i l i t i e s i n c l u d e d . fr o n td e s k@ a z a b u c o u r t . com www. azabucour t . com/ 03-3446-8610

R O P P O N G I S U M M E R S U B L E T. Fully furnished 2DK available for sublet from mid-May to mid-Sep. Light and airy corner unit, aircon, high-speed internet, washer and dryer, kitchen bar, covered veranda. Rent + utilities ¥200,000/m. Substantial discount for right person. Don at 090-58136721.

2.3 RENT OVER ¥200,000

0 TO K YO A PA RTM E NT S .

Yo u r o n e - s to p h o u s i n g solution throughout Tokyo. Providing serviced , furnished and unfurnished apartments, for both long and shortterm stays. Also providing relocation services, furniture rental, property manage me nt and sale s .

Please call 0120-957-920. www.tokyoapartments.jp 3LDK IN YOYOGI available fro m Ap r, 10 m i n fro m Yoyo g i stn, 4min from Sangubashi stn, one-month key money, no agency fee, no renewal fee, no guarantor necessary, w/three aircon ¥210,000. Water included. kokoro30.pl@gmail.com

2.5 PLACE WANTED

P R I VAT E F U R N I S H E D A P A R T M E N T S .

Odakyu line: MukogaokaYuen/Yomiuri-Land-Mae, 20/30min from Shinjuku.

Apartment swap, New York City and Tokyo. Have a three-bedroom near Union Sq, NYC. Looking to swap for a Tokyo apartment in the Ikebukuro area or on the Tobu Tojo for all or part of July.

Please contact Ken at 1-917-446-0437. actionallen@hotmail.com

2.7 OFFICE SPACE

MONDEWORK TOKYO: serviced offices and share offices available from one month located in Ichigaya (Yotsuya, Kojimachi), 24/7 access, company registration, bilingual reception service.

Fa c i l i t i e s i n c l u d e f r e e drinks, copy machine, TV, projector, meeting rooms.

Please call 03-4455-7594. www.tokyoapartments.jp/ serviced-offices/ MODERN, STYLISH SPACE IN AOYAMA. Conduct focus groups, interviews, training or meetings in well-equipped, comfortable setting. Host seven at-table, eight in viewing room. Break lounge i n c l u d e d , Fo c u sV i s i o n equipped. Contact studio@ the-carter-group.com or call 03-6438-9481 for pricing.

3 EDUCATION 3.2 JAPANESE TEACHERS P R I VAT E JA PA N E S E LESSONS ONLINE. Cheap, private Japanese lessons over Skype with experienced native Japane se teacher ¥ 1 5 0 0/ h . Ve r y f l exi b l e schedule. Lessons are 100% in Japanese as I am a nonEnglish speaker. Your choice of textb o o k . lio1974 e u @ yahoo.co.jp 09035919203 FREE TRIAL LESSON . Friendly professional Japanese teacher offers private lessons ¥4000/90min. Have teaching experience at schools in Australia and Japan. Lesson area is close to Tama-Center, Odakyu line/Keio line/ Tama Monorail/JR Yokohama line. iriya96black@nifty.com

3.5 LANGUAGE EXCHANGE English and Japanese. I'm seeking a language exchange partner, preferably an American, 26-38, in or near Ichikawa City. I'm a JF translator, 36. gk24vbn8@ gmail.com English and Japanese. My Japanese for your English in the Tokyo/Yokohama area. Female, mid-20s, lived in London, traveled around Europe and Australia.

Love American indie music, art and coffee. Thanks! momokokawabata@ yahoo.co.jp English and Japanese. Japanese seeks English speakers for language exchange or coffee buddies at coffee shops between Soka and Takenozuka.

Friendship only. Always seeking interesting people. Where are you from? language_exchange3@hotmail.com English and Japanese. British female new to Yokohama from Kansai seeking someone to chat in J with whilst helping with E. Trained English teacher now working as a designer. Enjoys cooking, badminton, Okinawa. Available weekends near Yokohama. Let's have fun! karekora@yahoo.co.uk

Metropolis reserves the right to refuse, cancel or edit any ad without notice. Metropolis takes no responsibility for the quality of items or services advertised. Please carefully examine vendors or items offered before commitment. Please be careful when contacting and arranging to meet people.

Visit classifieds.metropolis.co.jp for complete listings. #1049 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 23

Many more Classified ads online! Please visit classifieds.metropolis.co.jp English and Japanese. We're experienced hairdressers who used to work in London, UK. We're working in Japan now. If you need a haircut or Japanese conversation, let's have an exchange in Tokyo or Yokohama. iamahairdresser6946@gmail.com English and Japanese. Japanese female, 20s, is seeking a language exchange partner in central Tokyo.

My English level is basic. My interests are music, ramen, traveling. Feel free to message me. ashim0924@aka. gmobb.jp English and Japanese. Hi, there!

JF, 40s, working. I've been studying English on my own and want to find a nice language exchange partner. If you need help with your Japanese, please let me help you. himitsu@cosmos. ocn.ne.jp English and Japanese. Canadian, mid40s, is seeking someone who can help him with J translation and websiterelated work. Let's meet near Koenji, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro or Nerima stn. tarry2@hotmail.com English and Japanese. Japanese male, 30, married and very pleasant company, seeks language exchange partners from all over the world for relaxed conversations. Any age, sex, etc. Central Tokyo. Let’s arrange a time. shintom0315@hotmail.com English and Japanese. Hello! I'm a JF, 25. I want to learn E and make foreign friends. I can teach you J. Please send me messages. colorful012@gmail.com English and Japanese. Group language exchange every Wed, 7:309:30pm, at coffee shops around Ginza.

Most members are 20s and 30s. We switch languages every 30min. Fun events on weekends. Free to join. ando. andy@gmail.com French and Japanese. Frenchman will give Fr lessons in exchange for J lessons in central Tokyo. I'm fluent in E, and (almost) fluent in J as well. tokyocestbon@gmail.com 080-2015-2190 French and Japanese. Japanese male seeks native French speaker for language exchange. Let's start at a cafe for 30min/language. I used to be a Japanese teacher in Japan and overseas. Let's have fun in Tokyo! kejinto@yahoo.co.jp German and Japanese. JF seeks Ger/J language exchange partner. Seit Sechs Monaten lerne ich Deutsch aber ich spreche Englisch. F/M ok. If interested, drop me a line. gardenstate2005@ hotmail.com Italian and Japanese. Native Italian eager to speak J seeks a Japanese study mate for It/J on weekends.

Preferred area for meeting is Kudankita, Chiyoda-ku. mazziottip@ yahoo.it Russian, English, Japanese. Hi, I'm a JM, 26, currently living in Tokyo (around Shinagawa), seeking a language exchange partner. My hobbies are cycling, swimming, boxing.

I love country, alternative rock. Thanks. tomstoms2008@gmail.com

3.9 TEACH ME! I want to learn salsa or tango. I am a Western male living in Tokyo. I am free on Sun, anytime. Seeking info or a dance friend. Can anyone help? scorpiosrealm@hotmail.co.uk Private English teacher wanted.

I seek a patient teacher. All I need is your patience, experience not required. I’d like to take a trial lesson first. Prefer British English speaker, but not required. Wage, a re a n e g o t i a b l e . s n owly j o n @ excite.co.jp Reasonable English lessons .

Japanese male, 30, seeks native English teacher who could teach me at a cafe on weekends along the Odakyu line. umek2002jp@yahoo. co.jp Seeking cello teacher in the Shibuya area. We are seeking a cello teacher for our 13-year-old daughter. She has studied three years already.

24 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

Languages: Russian, English, French.

Weekly appointment. We already have a cello. arnaud.beranger@ ca-cib.com Web design. Foreign male seeking female web designer, open-minded, nonsmoker preferred. Must be available to meet in Tokyo, two-three times/month. I’ll teach you English. In return, you teach me how to create a website. jj08@drivehq.com

4 HOUSEHOLD GOODS 4.1 FURNITURE & FITTINGS Curtains, bedroom (W140x135cm), double-layer, light blue, quality brand. alessandrolibri@gmail.com Curtains, bedroom or lounge (W140x200cm), double-layer, white. aleslibri@aol.com Stool, white leather seat, metallic legs, as new ¥3000. alessandrolibri@ gmail.com Table, coffee, w/glass top, two chairs ¥10,000. Delivery included. hatoh16@ gmail.com Wardrobe, black, wood, w/glass doors (which I line with paper) ¥5000/ obo. Pick up only Edogawabashi stn, Yurakucho line. Details, photos available. marclark@hotmail.com 03-5261-9151

4.2 APPLIANCES BBQ grill, George Foreman, indoor/ outdoor, in great condition, low smoke ¥5000. Pick up only. sverkhovsky@ gmail.com Fridge and washer, as new ¥25,000.

Delivery possible. hatoh16@gmail.com

4.6 FOR KIDS Crib, Ikea Sniglar, two y/o, w/mosquito net, Disney (Pooh Bear) mobile (lots of battery left), mattress, in good shape, no stains ¥2000. menzoberranzen@ gmail.com Mat, for child’s room (6-7-mat), clean ¥3000. mizi2005@hotmail.com

4.7 FOR FREE Rack, steel (45x90x120cm), sturdy, heavy, originally a DJ table. Pick up Shibuya or pay for delivery. Would need a car to move it. silverboombox@ gmail.com

5 HOBBIES&INTERESTS 5.1 CAMERAS Digital camera, Canon Powershot S50, in excellent condition, w/all cables, battery, instructions ¥2000/obo.

Details, photos available. jai0424@ gmail.com sites.google.com/site/ jai0424 DSLR, Nikon D700, w/complete accessories, box, battery grip, timer RFS, as new ¥97,000. airconde@gmail. com Instant camera, Fujifilm, piano black, mini 50s, used one night ¥3000/obo. fairmontorchid0507@gmail.com

5.2 SPORTS EQUIPMENT Golf clubs, Iron Daiwa Hi-Trac TCS, w/carbon shaft 3-5-7-9-11 and Sureout sand wedge ¥3000. Pick up near Yokohama. sayonara_vancouver@ hotmail.com

Fridge, National NR-B12JA, 41L + 81L (480x1070x586mm), in good condition ¥6000. Pick up Sangenjaya or pay for delivery. hanappy.may@gmail.com

Shoes, for climbing, La Sportiva Python, boxed, size US 7/EU 39.5, used less than one hour indoors ¥10,000.

Pick up in/near Kichijoji. s.c851@ yahoo.co.uk

Fridge, Sharp SJ-H12W, suitable for two people, 118L (H1160xW480xD525mm), 32kg, in good condition, bought June '12, w/Japanese manual. kayla1001@ hotmail.com 080-4445-2863

Surfboards. 5’7”, slightly banged up, still shreds ¥9000. 6’3, tri-fin, w/fins, in great condition ¥35,000. Pick up Ikebukuro area. chemists_at_large@ yahoo.com

Heater, Plus Minus Zero, designed by celebrity Japanese industrial designer Naoto Fukasawa, red, as new ¥3000/ obo. lamaquila@i.softbank.jp Juicer, Vitantonio, 200W, quiet, also makes soy milk and green juice, hardly used, very clean ¥8000. Pick up near Yokohama. sayonara_vancouver@ hotmail.com Tea maker, Nescafe, single-serving capsules, calculates perfect brewing time and temperature, 25 varieties (green, black, blue, red, white, flavor, organic herb teas), brand new ¥6000.

Tokyo. mristhisapen@gmail.com

4.3 SAYONARA SALE Sayonara sale! Panasonic TV 32", double bed, Hitachi washer/dryer, microwave, kotatsu, hot carpet, hot pot, toaster oven, kitchen trolley. Ekoda.

Photos available. sailing4123@yahoo. com 08055364503 Sayonara sale! Fridge, washer, microwave, rice cooker, rice container, coffee table and two chairs, cordless phone, box guitar, old Technics turntable. Delivery to Tokyo, Kawasaki possible. Photos available. hatoh16@ gmail.com Sayonara sale! Semi-double bed, sofa, fridge, TV stand, vacuums, various appliances, etc. Pick up only Meguro

by May 18. jingzhaofd@gmail.com 09092952484 Sayonara sale! Sharp fridge, in very good condition ¥3000/obo. Double mattress, mattress, hot water case, office chair: free. Deluxe Italian espresso machine, etc. Pick up only for larger items. takecareletsgo@yahoo.com

4.4 TV & HOME THEATER Flatscreen TV, Sony, small ¥3500/obo. lamaquila@i.softbank.jp Tuner for PC, one-seg, USB, w/antenna (20x63x9mm) ¥500. Pick up near Yokohama. sayonara_vancouver@ hotmail.com

5.3 MUSICAL EQUIPMENT Drumsticks and brushes. Vic Firth Hickory American Classic 7A sticks, never used; Rute 606 Vic Firth, bundled mini wooden rods, special ordered, never used; steel wire brushes, never used ¥5000/all. Photos available. earth_travel_joy@hotmail.com Electric guitar, Fernandes, red, as new, w/gig bag ¥4000. Pick up Ebina stn. earth_travel_joy@hotmail.com Ro o m c o rr e c t i o n s o f t wa r e , Arc, for mixing, w/pro calibrated measurement mic, multi-platform Mac/ PC measurement software, RTAS, VST, AU DAW correction plug-in, original box ¥20,000. Photos available. earth_ travel_joy@hotmail.com

5.4 BOOKS/CD/DVD Japanese learning materials.

13 Secrets for Speaking Fluent J a p a n e se, Co nve r s atio n B o o k for Everyday Japanese, English Level 4, Random House JapaneseEnglish Dictionary, Contemporary Japanese Volume 1 ¥5000/all.

Details available. earth_travel_joy@ hotmail.com Kanji learning material.

M e m o rizi n g th e Ka n j i, th re e book complete system, joyo list and over 1000 more key kanji, w/ Nelson Kanji Dictionary ¥8500/ all. Ebina, though can maybe meet in Shinjuku. earth _travel_ joy@ hotmail.com Various genres. Graphic novels, Star Wars books, manga, The Peter Rabbit Library box set. Details available. brian.greenough@jcom. home.ne.jp

5.5 GAMING Nintendo DS lite, 3D, white, in very good condition, no box, w/optional Super Mario, Mario Kart, Donkey Kong ¥6000. mercedio@gmail.com

6 VEHICLES 6.1 CARS, PARTS, & ACCESSORIES SELL YOUR CAR, MOTORBIKE O R S CO OTE R FO R FR E E . http://classifieds.metropolis. co.jp/ BMW 320i, '01 model, silver, automatic sedan, 44,000km, runs well, no dents/ scratches, shaken till end of Apr ¥400,000. 日本語でもご連絡ください. davidogilvy@gmail.com 08055134611

6.2 MOTORBIKES, PARTS, & ACCESSORIES Scooter, Vespa LX125 3V, red, 6800km, works perfectly, small dent on footrest, barely visible scratch on lower left, w/Momo helmet and electronic key to make copies ¥200,000. Pick up Ebisu. alessiotokyo@gmail.com 08054580802

7.5 ITEMS TO SWAP BUY AN iPHONE, BUT WISH YOU H A D G OT T E N S O M E T H I N G A LITTLE MORE ANDROID? There’s p ro b a b ly s o m e o n e o u t t h e re feeling remorse of the opposite sort. Simplify things and swap those phones! Post your ad at ht tp : //c la s s if ie d s . m etrop oli s . co.jp/.

8 COMPUTERS 8.2 HARDWARE HD, Buffalo, 500GB, portable, pocketsized, made in Japan, compact, used as a back-up drive only, compatible w/ Mac, Win, TV, PlayStation 3, etc., as new ¥5000. jayfeirin@yahoo.co.jp iPad mini 16GB, Wi-Fi, hardly used, in good condition ¥12,000. Pick up Nakano or Shinjuku area. Details available. madamixx@yahoo.co.jp

6.3 BICYCLES, PARTS, & ACCESSORIES

Laptop, Dell Latitude E4300, Core 2 Duo P9400 2.4GHz, 4GB RAM, 80GB HD, 64-bit Win 7 Pro, w/English keyboard ¥20,000. nrad_bob@hotmail.com

Bicycle parts. Token Tiramik BB86.

New ¥9500. Sell ¥3000. Deda 0100 stem (90mm). New ¥8740. Sell ¥2500. kowasatom@yahoo.com

Monitor connector, USB-RGB/D2, w/ receipt, box. New ¥7450. Sell ¥4500.

Photos available. earth_travel_joy@ hotmail.com

Crankset, Shimano FC9000 Dura-Ace (170mm 50x34T), hardly used (no visible wear). New ¥55,095. Sell ¥20,000. kowasatom@yahoo.com

PCI card, Firewire, brand new ¥1000/ obo. lamaquila@i.softbank.jp

Fixed-gear bikes. Haro Objekt, matte black, w/Aerospoke ¥58,000. Fuji Feather, size XS, white, w/red accents, seat ¥30,000/obo. lamaquila@i. softbank.jp Mamachari, four y/o, three-gear, w/ baby seat in front ¥5000. Pick up Shinjuku/Shinanomachi stn. info@ ryoko.pl 08066497393 Road bike, Cinelli Gazzetta della Strada, Columbus Cr-Mo steel frame, original Shimano Claris/eight-speed groupset ¥65,000. Pick up Shimomeguro, Meguro area. piccolag@gmail.com Sprocket, Shimano Dura-Ace CS9000, hardly used (no visible wear). New ¥24,638. Sell ¥10,000. kowasatom@ yahoo.com

7 GENERAL 7.1 PHONES Smartphone, Sharp Aquos The Hybrid 101SH, Android, SoftBank ¥5000. sls00@live.com

Pocket Wi-Fi, Emobile, w/charger ¥1000/obo. lamaquila@i.softbank.jp

10 HELP! 10.1 HELP ME Pro Tools 11 purchased by JM musician, but no idea how to use it. I need a master to help me develop my knowledge and skill. Genre: alternative, also like Nicolas Jaar. Can you be my master? A bit serious. tokyolocalize@hotmail.com Seeking E/J translator in Machida.

I would like to edit some documents into Japanese, but I have limited knowledge of it. I can teach you English or French. Please contact me. Machida area preferred. understanding_life@ hotmail.com

West Papua has been invaded and the people robbed of their rights, culture and country. Help support West Papuans’ desire to be free. http://tapol.gn.apc.org/ davidhalpern@7ymail.com ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS TOKYO. If you have a problem with drinking, we can help. English-speaking m e e t i n g s d a i ly. 0 3 -3 97 1 -147 1 inquiries@aatokyo.org http:// aatokyo.org TOKYO AMERICAN CLUB I N T E R N AT I O N A L M E M B E R ’ S ASSOCIATION. A call out to TAC members! Have you been bullied, harassed and mistreated by TAC? Have you been suspended and/ or expelled by TAC without proper due process? YOU ARE NOT ALONE! We are a group working together to help individuals like you and to make a better TAC for everyone!

Contact us at: tacima@outlook.com HIV Peer Support group and workshops. Get together with people in the same boat as you, who understand.

Held in a safe, considerate, 100% confidential setting to discuss what’s on your mind, ask questions and make new friends. info@peersupporttokyo. com www.peersupporttokyo.com Infertility support group. TTC Tokyo is an infertility support group that provides informal opportunities for women and men experiencing infertility to connect with one another.

Please visit website for more info. admin@ttctokyo.org www.ttctokyo. org/

10.3 LOST FRIENDS Kaori (Wendy) and Yumika Tsuji.

Wondering what happened to old friends. Both worked at Yokota Air Base in Fussa. Wendy for years - she was very well-known. I knew them both well. What happened to them? Any info appreciated.

Thanks. mwhjapan2004@yahoo.com

11 MESSAGES 11.1 PERSONAL MESSAGES

Short film needs married couple to act. Both actors must speak English and be willing to contribute wedding clips to the film. If interested, please send email. kilian.lexx5@gmail.com

10.2 SUPPORT

7.2 FASHION Shoes, Converse, white leather highcuts, size 23cm, worn only once, as new, no box ¥5000. mercedio@gmail.com Wedding celebrant gown and stole, dry cleaned, in good condition ¥15,000. gaijin46@hotmail.com

7.3 MISCELLANEOUS Massage table, Earthlite, in good condition, w/accessories. New ¥60,000. Sell ¥29,000. charlie@ seishindo.org 08056565485 Nicorette gum, fresh mint, 2mg, 630 pieces (21x30-piece boxes), expires autumn ‘14. New ¥45,000. Sell ¥12,000.

Meet Shinagawa or send chakubarai. perukunboy@hotmail.com Plant holder, made from 70-year-old tree trunk, 23kg, previously used to prepare homemade omochi ¥8000. mmcaproni2010@yahoo.co.jp Suitcases, travel, black, two available, lightweight, roomy, in excellent condition ¥2500. negmhossam@ hotmail.com

NEED TO TALK? We’re here to listen.

TELL LIFELINE: free, anonymous English counseling daily from 9am-11pm by trained volunteers: 03-5774-0992. TELL COUNSELING: affordable multilingual p syc hothe rapy by acc re dite d Western-trained professionals, a CIGNA International Provider: 03-4550-1146. TELL website: www. telljp.com. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter @TokyoLifeLine.

HIS Roppongi, 7 avril, mannequin (?) de Paris - vous avez acheté un billet et nous avons parlé un peu. Je suis l’Ecosse. Ecrivez-moi, s’il vous plaît.

Merci. ajrprent@hotmail.com

12 SOCIAL SCENE 12.1 LET’S PARTY THE JAPAN HELPLINE, 24 hours a d ay, fro m a ny wh e re , a b out a ny t h i n g . Fro m e m e rg e n c y assistance to simple questions.

Visit www.jhelp.com/ and press “ he lp,” or call 0 570 - 0 0 0 -911.

To volunteer or support, please contact team@jhelp.com. www. jhelp.com/

7.4 ITEMS WANTED Sofa, three-in-one. steps.od@ezweb. ne.jp 09061526274 Vinyl LPs and record collections.

Japan-pressed LPs, EPs and singles from the '60s, '70s, etc., any genre considered. Will pay cash for quality items. brian.greenough@jcom.home. ne.jp

WRITE A MESSAGE FOR YOUR SPECIAL SOMEONE! Write anything, from birthday messages to proposals, and so much more! Contact us through our website at http://classifieds. metropolis.co.jp.

WEST PAPUA: ONE SOUL , ONE PEOPLE . Fifty years ago, West Papua should have been an independent country. Since 1969,

HONEEY’S COLLECTION, supported by V2TOKYO and Shonan Beauty Clinic.

Sat, May 10, 6 -10pm, V2Tokyo Roppongi. Google ハ ニコレ online/ YouTube .

Foreigners: max 75% off H o n e eys .Co @ g m a il .co m Say “Metropolis’ guest,” with photo ID.

JAPAN INTERNATIONAL PARTY – 12 th Anniversary Special.

Sat, May 24, 6:30-9pm, Devi Fusion (Roppongi). Japan’s biggest international party.

250 people expected. All-youcan-drink and free snacks.

J a p a n e s e m e n : ¥4 0 0 0.

Others: ¥3000. Mobile: http:// getyourfriend.com/mobile/ jiparty@hotmail.com http:// www.getyourfriend.com/ 090-1735-5405

J O I N T H E B I G G E S T, B E S T, M O S T P O P U L A R INTERNATIONAL PARTY! Great people, drinks and food!

Meet new friends and party with nice people in a friendly atmosphere. Events in Tokyo (Ginza, Azabu, Roppongi) and Osaka. ¥1500-¥2000. http://english.gaitomo.com/ info@gaitomo.com

13 CLUBS & INTERESTS 13.1 SPORTS

TA M B O U R E L L I . U n i q u e n e w s p o r t fro m S cotl a n d . U s i n g a tambourine-like instrument as a racquet, players hit a shuttlecock.

We play two or three times/month on weekends in Meguro with many socials. Join us! More details: w w w.tamjapan .org/e n/ info @ tamjapan.org All-level tennis group in Tokyo. Serious and motivated tennis players sought by active tennis group to join their weekly sessions in central Tokyo. We have advanced and intermediate groups on weekday evenings. Beginner and lowintermediate also welcome. No entrance or membership fees. Reasonable participation fees. tokyo.tennis@yahoo.fr Badminton club in Tokyo. Small international group seeks players from abroad. If you know basic footwork, strokes and play seriously, you could definitely enjoy playing with us. mune2006@hotmail.co.jp http://www. geocities.jp/mune_albat/page4.html Badminton! I'm seeking people to play badminton with in Yokohama/Kohoku-ku on weekday evenings or weekends. I am not a professional, but why don't we meet up, play for a couple of hours and then enjoy dinner together? karekora@ yahoo.co.uk Don's Half-Fast Flash-Mob Weekend Urban Bicycle Rides. halffastcycling@ hotmail.com Football/soccer players. Tokyo Redstar, Setagaya League 2, is seeking soccer players for FW positions. Practice almost every Sat/Sun in Tokyo. Attendance must be over 60%. Experienced players in a spirit of fair play welcome. saito987@ hotmail.com http://tokyoredstar.com/ Futsal players wanted by a very friendly international team. Practice is in Tokyo and Kanagawa on Sat. Details available. fkkyn468@ybb.ne.jp Futsal players needed. Please introduce yourself if you want to play futsal. 港区の 方でフットサルしたい方自己紹介お連絡くださ い. futsaluk@yahoo.co.jp

AMERICAN FOOTBALL. Nihon Unisys Bulls, X league Central Division, seeks fit players w/ US college football experience for all positions. Practice every Sat/Sun from 10am-3pm (including meeting) in Tokyo/Saitama (time & venue subject to change). Attendance at practice must be over 60%.

Please contact for tryout info and send your profile to team admin. bullsxleague@gmail.com http:// www.unisys.co.jp/football/ AIKIDO IN EN GLI SH. Seidokan Aikido of Tokyo invites you to practice a modern style of aikido in an international environment. Sat, 1-3pm. Itabashi-ku, Toei Mita/Saikyo line. We welcome men and women, J a p a n e s e a n d n o n -J a p a n e s e . dojo@tokyoseidokan.com www. tokyoseidokan.com 03-5994-1185 A L L- N AT I O N A L I T Y T O U C H FOOTBALL. Non-contact tag rugby (OZ tag) and Rugby League players.

We play every Sat from 10am in Tatsumi. M/F and beginners welcome! Good exercise and fun!

Many other activities, such as BBQs and drinking parties! Email for details. tokyorugbyleague@ hotmail.com http://ameblo.jp/ tokyo13warriors AMATEUR RUGBY LEAGUE PLAYERS. Japan ANZACS Rugby League team is seeking Rugby League players for Japanese Rugby League official games from Apr to Sep. Everyone welcome. Contact for more details. japananzacs@gmail.com PLAY RUGBY. The Tokyo Crusaders are a friendly but keen international rugby club. Devoted to the game and its social side, the “Cru” welcomes all players and supporters.

Established in 1990, the Cru plays in the Shuto League 1st Division. http://www.facebook.com/tokyo. crusaders www.tokyocrusaders. com

Futsal team. Intermediate futsal team in Tokyo seeking people who can enjoy the game with others. Please introduce yourself (age, nationality, where you live, whether you belong to another team). umek2002jp@yahoo.co.jp Gaelic football in Japan. Japan Gaelic Athletic Association is always seeking new members, male or female. No experience necessary. Great way to meet new people and get fit at the same time. japangaa@gmail.com http://www. facebook.com/japangaa Interested in tai chi? Then why not start now? Take a step to counter the stresses of daily living. Practice is in Toyama Park on Sun mornings, near Takadanobaba stn. chifact@gmail.com Quality football. Interested in playing football at the weekend and training midweek? Want to enjoy a few beers after a good run out? If you consider yourself a quality player, please drop us a note. bfcvagabonds@gmail.com

13.2 LEISURE MACARTHUR HEIGHTS. Take a break where General Douglas MacArthur did! One hour from Tokyo by car or direct train. Beautiful cabins on the ocean, w/onsen, beach, shopping. housinginjapan@yahoo. com

13.3 ARTS Love Shakespeare? Amateur group in Tokyo, meeting once/month to celebrate our love of the Bard. Come to read, or just to listen. All nationalities welcome, no experience necessary! rchrd_schwartz@ yahoo.com http://groups.yahoo.com/ group/Shakespeare-sama/

13.4 MUSIC A cappella group. Miss singing? Join our singing group! We sing orchestral classical music only in human voice, conducted by a professional a cappella singer. ryusei@acappellacantabile.jp http://acappella-cantabile. jp/?page_id=202

Classical choir seeking singers.

Tokyo International Singers, a longstanding and well-respected choir, is seeking singers in all ranges. We practice once/week in Ebisu, and our next concert (Poulenc) is in Dec. timknowles@mac.com 03-3485-3041 J a p a n e s e d ru m m e r s e e k i n g musicians. Guitar and bass player sought for rock, dance, pop, blues, jazz, etc. Melody is important. Hopefully, we can have gigs so everybody can dance! kosuke1016@hotmail.com

L’operaio is the largest speciality pre-owned luxury car dealership in Tokyo. Each sale is backed by our outstanding customer support and maintenance personnel.

13.5 MIND, BODY, SPIRIT Diamond Way Buddhism Tokyo.

Do you want to explore your own mind? Guided Buddhist meditation every Sun, 6pm, near Azabu-Juban.

International practitioners, beginners welcome, Japanese spoken. Please call 090-3598-3072 for more information. daginia@gmail.com http://www. diamondway.jp/

Always 350 or more imported cars.

Mercedes-Benz・AMG・Porsche ・BMW・audi・Ferrari・Lamborghini・Maserati

“Introduction to Buddhism in English,” by Rev. Tatsuya Aoki, Sat, May 31, 5:30pm. Free. Hongwanji Tsukiji Betsuin, 3-15-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-8435. iba@myouenji.com 03-3541-1131

J-STAR PATENT, TRADEMARK & IMMIGRATION OFFICE Reasonable prices.

Free first time consultation

Tai chi in Yoyogi Park. Come to Yoyogi Park to practice tai chi chuan with likeminded people. Get out into a nice bit of nature in the heart of Tokyo. More info at our webpage. ddh@gol.com http:// www.gpytcjapan.com 03-3487-3011 Zen meditation (Zazen). You’ve always thought it would be interesting to try it - why not now? Join us Fri evenings at Tokuun-in in Ueno. Make arrangements in advance by email, and check our home page. tokyozazen@ jcom.home.ne.jp www.wgthorpe.com

13.6 RELIGIOUS Christians in Tokyo meetup group. Are you a Christian seeking Christian friends to fellowship with? Have fun meeting new Christian friends at day/night hikes, museums, concerts, ice cream socials, movies, fellowship dinners and more. bchang6276@yahoo.com http://www. meetup.com/christians-in-tokyo/

13.8 PROFESSIONAL Tokyo Traders Club. International club for traders and investors. Discuss opportunities in stocks, commodities and forex. Many regular events, including FX trading workshop. New to trading? No problem: beginners also welcome. You can also learn to trade. Join free! info@tokyotraders. com http://www.tokyotraders.com/ 080-5681-1321

13.9 INTERNATIONAL Intercultural activities. JII (Japan Intercultural Institute) is a nonprofit, member-run organization that sponsors activities (seminars, cultural events, conferences) for those wanting to further develop intercultural competencies and meet other interculturalists. yuko. bolick@japanintercultural.org www. japanintercultural.org

14 PERSONALS 14.1 FRIENDS

We can support you with: Visa and immigration Intellectual property rights (Patent, trademark, copyrights)

Patent attorney Immigration lawyer

Imperial Palace

Aoyama Ave

Other Legal & Business matters Hiroshi Oogai,

Exit 4, Nagatacho stn Supreme Court

Establishing a Company & Branch office

www.j-star.jp

Akasaka Mitsuke stn

Akasaka Excel Hotel Tokyu

National Diet Library

608 Kitano Arms 16-15, Hirakawa-cho, 2-Chome, Chiyoda-ku ,Tokyo, 102-0093

Tel: 03-5216-6890 Fax: 03-5216-6891 Email: hiroshioogai@j-star.jp

AZUMA

LEGAL AND BUSINESS SUPPORT CENTER a division of azuma consulting ltd.

We totally support your Visa and business needs

Our services include:  Immigration (visa) assistance

Eligibility, Visa change & Renewal, Permanent resident

 Company Foundation  Bookkeeping  Payroll (withholding taxes etc.)

 Other business documents

www.azuma-law.com

Rafine Higashi Ginza 209, 4-4-14, Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045 Attn: Mr. Y.Ogawa, Representative email: info@azuma-law.com | tel/fax: 03-6226-5105 | mobile: 080-1126-2293

WADA Legal & Administrative Office We can help you with:

American? Mature but friendly Japanese female is seeking an American for a good friendship. I love Americans! Please drop me a line. armand_pa2@yahoo.co.jp

• Visa & Immigration Procedures • Mixed Marriage, Naturalisation and Refugee Status • Establishing a Company & Branch Office • Accounting Services, Acquiring Business Licences • Preparation/Translation of Legal & Business Documents • Other Legal & Business Matters

Are you from... JF, 30s, seeking nonsmoking friends from Denmark, Germany, Canada or Australia for having fun times together. Let's meet for a cup of coffee first. Please be nonsmokers, 30s. Mail with selfintroduction, please! b2jw13@hotmail. co.jp Bilingual Tokyo male seeks wingman.

Male, 30-ish, central Tokyo resident, J/E bilingual, seeks J/E bilingual male friend, preferably 25-35-ish, to go out and meet women. Not for womanizing, but finding new encounters (my friends are married). elikp.coalesce@ gmail.com

Grand Prince Hotel Akasaka

For information: Tel: (03) 3345-7977 FAX: (03) 3345-5377

http://www.wada-lats.com/ E-mail: info@wada-lats.com 3-5-3-1402 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0023 #1049 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 25

Many more Classified ads online! Please visit classifieds.metropolis.co.jp

Now You Can Recharge in Roppongi 24/7/365

Hotel IBIS Soba shop Mos Burger

Metropolis Promo

Tel: 03-3796-2411 relaxtokyo.com

60 & 120min courses now ¥1,000 off 30min course ¥500 off

Almond

Takoyaki shop Police box Roppongi-dori

Danes wanted! JF, 30s, into Denmark like crazy. Er der nogen dansker i Tokyo eller Kanagawa at moedes til kaffe og hjaelpe mig at laere dansk lidt? Please be nonsmokers, 30s preferred. Glaeder mig til at hoere fra jer! codename107113@live.com

Attractive Japanese male for SWF. Seeking attractive Western female with a nice smile. If you are interested in chatting over coffee or nice food, please contact me and let me know. I am looking forward to your contact. juniperten2013@gmail.com

Female learning coding seeking similar friend. Let's study together and help each other out. kdr4iysma@i.softbank.jp

Attractive SJM seeks a nice Western or Japanese female for friendship and possibly more. Nonsmokers preferred.

I am confident that I can create fun times for you. If you are ready, email me. cioinjapan@gmail.com

Groove Coaster friend(s) sought. I am a lone player and not really super good at it, but I do want a friend to play with occasionally. Start with emails, and if we have the chance, let's meet up. email@amarrel.com

COURSES Body care 30 min: ¥3,150 60 min: ¥6,300 (Early bird 6am-2pm ¥5,250) 120 min: ¥12,600

Jazz-playing friends in Tokyo.

Japanese male seeking jazz players for fun in the Tokyo area. I've been playing the alto sax for a couple of years. Still amateur, but want to play with others. yossynet@ra2.so-net. ne.jp

Oil massage (daytime only) 60 min: ¥8,400 120 min: ¥16,800

Strong, beautiful, flexible Transform your body & soul at BASI PILATES! Offering you “Authentic Pilates” Metropolis Campaign

Admission Fee: ¥15,750 ¥0 Trial Machine Private Lesson: ¥10,000 ¥8,400 Package 3 Machine Private Lessons

¥30,000 ¥18,000

Machine Private Lessons available at our Roppongi studio Lessons in English available Studios in Roppongi, Ginza, Nakameguro and more

03-6425-7054 • roppongi@basipilates.jp www.basipilates.jp/english/

Mama tomo friends on maternity leave. I'm a mid-30s new mom on one-year maternity leave with a baby girl. Let's share common topics over coffee. Odakyu or Keio line preferred. mikan5354@gmail.com Online friends. Japanese female seeks penpals from overseas to talk about culture, books and art online.

No guys who talk about their exes.

Women hate that. peaceful_world8@ hotmail.com Seeking friends in central Tokyo.

JF, early 30s, seeks friends to hang out with in central Tokyo. atkm92@ yahoo.co.jp Seeking Japanese friend? Hello!

I am a Japanese male living in central Tokyo. If you want to try your Japanese or hang out with a local, let's chat! kejinto@yahoo.co.jp Want oil massage? Japanese female is seeking female friends to practice oil massage. If you're interested in getting an oil massage, please contact me and I'll send you details.

Females only. pinkrose7@hotmail. co.jp

Room 806 - Roppongi

14.2 MEN LOOKING FOR WOMEN

Tel: 03-5545-4325

ADORABLE AND HANDSOME J M S E E K I N G LO N G -T E R M RELATION SHIP. Good-looking, caring, bilingual, financially stable Japanese male, mid-30s, seeks sincere woman around Tokyo for a serious romantic relationship leading to a long-term relationship.

Please mail me with details. pirlo_ cucchiaio@hotmail.com

Hair Salon, Fades, Relaxers & Braids

4/You 2 - Hiroo

Massage & Waxing (ladies only)

Tel: 03-3443-2279

Sakura Total Beauty Salon - Yokosuka Relaxers, Shellack gel, Waxing & Fades

Tel/Fax: 046-826-2218

Pretty feet, Pedicure & eyelash extesions

Tel: 0468-84-8095

www.theroom806.com since 1998

WRITE FOR US!

✓ Feature stories ✓ “The Last Word” ✓ Food & Drink ✓ Tech ✓ Interviews & Community Profiles Prior experience and strong industry contacts a must.

To apply, send letter of introduction, CV and relevant clips to

editor@metropolis.co.jp Due to the high volume of correspondence we regret that we can’t respond to every query. No calls please.

26 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

SUBMI SIVE SJM, 36, cute, is seriously seeking a woman who is into, or interested in, dominating men. I am so submissive, with seven years’ experience, that I am happy to take whatever and serve you in any way. slaveintokyo@ gmail.com Activity partner. Manager for international technology company seeks a JF for afternoon movies, coffee or wine at cafes, or jet skiing in Izu. Inquisitive, determined, warm JF desired. I am a cheerful and optimistic guy who enjoys martial arts. goodfeelingjp@yahoo.co.jp Afternoon fun? MWM Canadian, 30s, attractive and respectful, seeks Japanese/Asian lady for safe afternoon fun in Tokyo. Weekdays or weekends ok. Are you fully satisfied? I have good experience. Take a chance and email me today. foreignerintokyo2@yahoo. com

Big man. I'm seeking a woman who likes big men. I'm a SWM, 193cm, 100kg. I like women of any size. freelancecdc2@yahoo.co.jp Blue-eyed British boy, 23, handsome, seeks older JF for romance, travel, enjoyment together. I stand 178cm, have a medium build, am athletic. dragonpower99@gmail.com British male, 31, friendly, tall, slim, seeking a nice girl to hang out with.

Nationality/race unimpor tant , but should be 20-35 and have a nice personality. Interested in music and film: you should be, too. shiodomebye@gmail.com Calm, gentle JM seeks someone special for a serious relationship leading to marriage. I am 42, nonsmoking, don' t drink. Any nationality ok. If interested, please contact me. Let’s start with a cup of coffee. olympia127@yahoo.co.jp Can we be friends? Married man for housewife. Can we exchange emails and meet sometimes for a coffee together? Serious but slightly lonely married gentleman here. vbcfgt@ hotmail.com Caring and cute JM seeks attractive, hearty, nonsmoking Western female for friendship. I simply would like to share fun, interesting and great experiences with you. If you feel the same way, just drop me a line. jinzaixyz@yahoo.co.jp Design my new house with me. I just bought some land in central Tokyo and will be building a house. Is there a cute lady around my age (30s) who wants to help me, and then let's see what happens? timtodd008@yahoo.co.uk Dine, hang out with nice Melbourne man. Hi, I am a creative, educated, mid-30s Australian male. I am hoping to find someone nice here in Japan who is honest, caring and can share joy. Please contact me. markjamesbutcher@gmail.com European male seeking woman.

Hello, I'm a European man, goodlooking, tall (180cm), blond, seeking a nice Japanese woman to chat and become friends with and more. I live and work in Tokyo. f1thu57@gmail. com Fitness instructor. Middle-aged American man seeking a nice Japanese lady for fun and happiness.

If you are bored and lonely, please contact me - I will not disappoint. I am waiting for you. gonzo33@outlook. com Free time in the daytime? White English guy, 54, seeks Japanese friend, 30s-40s, for uncomplicated adult fun and general friendship. Married and serious only. tempteccobox@hotmail. com Good with ropes? Are you young, slim, willing? Average 40-ish guy with lots of lust and ideas wants to play with you. Central Tokyo, no commercial interests, please. lightalamb@yahoo. co.jp

Art and music. JM, 25, from central Tokyo, seeks a female friend interested in art or music. Shall we go to museums and concerts together? Please respond if you're interested. Let's talk at a cafe first. t.nakajima100@gmail.com

Good-looking SWM for good-looking SF. SWM, professional job, tall, fit, fun, outgoing, seeking just one special lady, 40+, attractive, fit, a little athletic, who loves the outdoors, wearing jeans, traveling, trying new things, for a longterm relationship. deepcoralblue@ gmail.com

Athletic British guy seeking openminded older woman. I'm always being told I'm handsome, but I have no confidence to approach older women so I'm hoping this website might work.

I don't like girls who are not openminded. dragonpower99@gmail.com

Good-looking WM seeking discreet JF in Tokyo, 45. I am a businessman who visits Tokyo often. I want to find a woman to have dinner and laughs with. I am cheerful and fun. I am very clean and discreet. jswinger13@yahoo. com

Great opportunity for SWF in Tokyo.

Attractive SJM seeks attractive, spiritually mature, thoughtful SWF for a meaningful relationship. Shall we begin to talk? I won't disappoint you. followupforme14@gmail.com Handsome and cool SJM seeks welleducated, interesting, attractive, nonsmoking SWF to share wonderful times and make a good friendship.

So let's meet for coffee or lunch to get to know each other better. If no experience, please just try me. healsan@yahoo.com Have a different feeling, too. Is it the color of the skin that you want?

Let me tell you, happiness is hard to find, but color is everywhere. I'll go for happiness, how about you? I'm a black guy. jungle.peacock@yahoo.com I’m an analog person. Seeking nice female with similar hobbies. I’m a Japanese male, 40s, cool and honest.

I like rock music, American TV dramas, movies, tattoo art, and going for walks and taking pictures. getloud999hello@yahoo.co.jp Japanese male, 41, single, seeks sincere, warm, open-minded white female for friendship and romance. I am generous, nonsmoking, like traveling, reading, philosophy and enjoying my life. skyoverture@excite.co.jp Japanese man seeks female. Hi, I'm a JM seeking a foreign friend. I'm 30, easygoing, and I like driving, drinking, movies, dancing at clubs, etc. If you are seeking a friend, please mail me back. Any nationality ok. kosuke1016@ hotmail.com Lazy weekends together? Seeking attractive and curvy girlfriend, 160cm+, who is fun to be around and seeking intimacy in the Tokyo area.

I'm a caring Afro-American male from NY, 35, 183cm, shaved head, athletic build, working in IT. Interested? goldfinger726@gmail.com Lovely single French guy living in central Tokyo, sweet, seeking a JF, 30s, for a long-term relationship.

I'm working in advertising and as a photographer. I like travel (Bali, Thailand, Kyoto), onsen, movies, jogging. Nihongo ok. cdgnrt@yahoo.fr Lust (not love). I am a MWM, athletic, handsome, totally clean, nonsmoker, mid-30s, seeking a similar MJF who is open-minded, discreet, desires to share a safe, satisfying, secret relationship. Total mutual respect.

Long-term. xxx.commitment.xxx@ gmail.com Married, but seeking fun! Married, but love is missing. I am a nice-looking white gent, 43, gentle, fun, healthy.

It would be nice to meet someone for afternoon/evening company. sattisaction@gmail.com Mature and sophisticated Japanese, some have said charming, seeking an elegant, passionate, kind SWF. I dream about wild nights as well as sharing the simple pleasures of love. Is that you? imak1_2_3@yahoo.co.jp Mature Japanese lady. I'm an Australian guy, single, tall, athletic build, 45, well-established in Tokyo with a good job. I want to meet an interesting, mature Japanese lady around my age. soleman196@hotmail. com Mature man for mature woman.

Attractive, mature European man, 50, seeks a Japanese lover. I prefer somebody around my age (40s-60s).

I am highly cultured and like Japanese ladies very much. vbcfgt@hotmail. com MJF sought. I am a MWM Tokyo executive, mid-40s. You are a MJF, sunny personality, open-minded to one-on-one no strings attached. Let's satisfy each other's unfulfilled needs privately and discreetly. kamal895@ icloud.com Need a family. Give me a family, I’ll give you everything. Educated, financially stable guy, 30s, is seriously seeking someone to start a family. You: educated, slim, under 40. Let’s start from friendship. Nihongo ok. uniman@ gmail.com

JOBS CLINICAL TRIAL OPPORTUNITY. Major Tokyo research clinic seeks participants for clinical trial i n Tok yo w it h tot a l p ay m e nt o f ¥650,000. Explanatory sessions will be held in Apr/May. Send email to clinical.trials.tokyo@gmail.com for more info.

BA R A N D G R I L L AT ROPPONG I HILLS seeking part-time hall, kitchen staff and bartenders ¥1000-¥1600.

Any nationality ok. Contact us by e m a i l a t m a n a b u .w a t a n a b e @ c re a t e re s t a u ra nt s . c o m o r c a l l 080-6500-2597.

SALES INTERN. Metropolis is seeking a bilingual (E/J) intern to join the most successful English-language advertising team (Restaurants & Bars) in Japan. Great opportunity to learn in an exciting environment. No pay, but transportation provided. Please email knakashima@metropolis.co.jp.

New to Tokyo. I'm a tall SWM who has just moved to Tokyo. I'm seeking a serious relationship leading to marriage. I'm in my mid-30s and would like a Japanese woman around the same age. freelancecdc2@yahoo. co.jp One special woman. Hi, SWM, professional job, tall, good-looking, fit, warm smile, big heart, loves the outdoors, travel, leads an active lifestyle, needs same in a slender, attractive SF, 35+, who needs one special guy to make life complete. deepcoralblue@gmail.com Reignite the passion. Canadian MWM living in Tokyo seeking sincere, discreet MJF or SJF seeking to reignite passion. Free on weekday evenings and occasionally weekends. Let's get to know each other and take it from there. theroyaljoker@yahoo.com Romance with an older lady. Very nice and sexy gentleman seeks an older, or much older, woman to have nice dates and a romance. feeltokyo@ yahoo.co.uk Saitama? Canadian guy, 44, seeking girlfriend in Saitama. martin_coman@ hotmail.com Seeking Parisienne. Affluent and excellent Japanese architectural engineer is seeking an attractive Parisienne who can speak English. I visited Paris last Dec and would like to learn more about it. Give me the hot info on Paris now. imak1_2_3@yahoo. co.jp

To advertise: commercial@metropolis.co.jp

03-4588-2277

Recruiting Careers in Tokyo Pacific Associates Limited is a recruiting company focused on helping our foreign-capital clients find bilingual talent in Japan. We specialize in a number of industries including Pharmacuetical, Medical Device, Finance, Information Technology, Digital Media and Industrial/Manufacturing.

We are seeking potential team-members with good character, strong work-ethic and the desire to build a career in recruiting.

We offer training, support, teamwork and the platform for prosperity.

YOUNG SINGERS, DANCERS AN D MODE LS WANTE D. Japan’s leading entertainment company, Avex, is seeking new artists and talento. Successful participants will be promised a shot at debuting on a major label with our full backup.

Males and females between 13 and 22.

No conditions on nationality or visa status. oda-shungo@av.avex.co.jp http://www.avexstarsearch.com/ BAR AND RE STAURANT MANAGE M E NT COM PANY seeks f u l l-t i me/p a r t-t i me ex p e r ie nce d bartenders and hall staff who can work for a lounge bar in Roppongi.

Part-time ¥1100 -¥1500. Full-time ¥250,000-¥350,000. Any nationality with a valid visa can apply. Contact us by email at jobfinder@skymit.biz or call 03-3568-7158 (Mon-Fri, 9:30am5:30pm).

In addition to the normal pay and benefits, we provide a weekly cash-bonus, frequent team-building events and quarterly reward-travel.

We are hiring at all levels: Admin, Researchers, Associates, Consultants and Partners. PAL is a partner-owned business with equity opportunity.

careers@pacific-associates.jp Pacific Associates Limited

Houmei Bldg.6F, 1-3-19 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0052 http://www.pacific-associates.jp Phone: 03-6680-8888

SALES & MARKETING POSITIONS. Met rop olis i s s e e k i n g mot ivate d bi l i n g ua l ( E /J ) s a le s exe cut ive s , support staff and interns to join its advertising and marketing team .

Send your resume, in both English and Japanese, to jobs@metropolis. co.jp. Positions available are posted on our website at http://metropolis. co.jp/jobs.

Seeking a cool girl. American guy, tall, interesting, seeking a cool Tokyo girl to explore the town with. vinculavinculorumestshibuya@gmail. com Seeking female company. Caucasian male, married, 30s, seeks female Japanese friend (older or younger) for adult fun. Must be discreet and safe. Let's meet for coffee first. meetforcoffee3@ gmail.com

Seeking long-term relationship possibly leading to marriage. I am black, 30s, seeking a lasting relationship possibly leading to marriage. Serious contact, please. frtrandy@gmail.com 09083161614 Seeking married Japanese women.

I am married, 48, easygoing and romantic. Are you married, but seeking excitement? If so, I would love to meet you. Let's have something extra in our lives. kamal895@icloud.com Seeking MJF. MWM, 40s, working and living in Tokyo. If you are a MJF, open-minded, let's satisfy each other's

Capsule Hotel

*Tax included separately

NEW OPENING!

S e e k i n g p a s s i o n a t e l ove r.

Professionally and financially very successful, accomplished, loving married male from America is seeking a kind, caring, nonsmoking lady for a one-on-one, long-term, discreet affair. Let me make you happy! nicefunguy_321@yahoo.com

Fully equipped Quality amenities with bath, shower and coin laundry on 1F

Safe Locker storage

unfulfilled needs privately and discreetly. kamal895@icloud.com

24-hour online or phone booking English, Chinese, Korean OK! Kashiwaba Junior High School

Iriya Station

Check-in from 3pm / Check-out by noon Showa Dori Minowa Station

Tel: 03-6240-6027 Fax: 03-6240-6028

3 minutes on foot from Iriya station, Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line / Tokyo, Taito-ku, Shitaya 3-10-10

Seeking JFs to enjoy night life together.

Hello, I'm seeking some friends to show me Tokyo's night life. I love clubbing and am living in Shibuya. I'm young (28) and just moved here from London. itsnotveryimportant@hotmail.co.uk Seeking lasting relationship. I am of African decent, 30s, very entertaining, seeking a serious relationship which can lead to marriage. No one-night stands.

Contact me if you are serious. frtrandy@ gmail.com

¥1,980 a Night

TORANOMON VETERINARY CLINIC 虎 ノ 門 ど う ぶ つ 病 院 Seeking really busty woman who wants to meet her dream lover. If you are, please contact me! Age and body size don’t matter. kondriano1@web.de Seeking serious relationship. Kind guy, 40, average-looking, openminded, easygoing, honest, faithful, seeks serious girlfriend for longterm relationship, any nationality ok.

Chubby females preferred. ssina61@ yahoo.com Seeking Spanish speakers. I am a JM, 39, living in Tokyo. I am an ophthalmologist (eye doctor). I am learning Spanish and English. I want to find girlfriends who speak English or Spanish. Send message, please! mpshin123@gmail.com

Family doctor for your dogs and cats in the heart of Tokyo!

Consultations available in English!

Vaccinations Heartworm prevention, flea/tick control In-house blood work, X-ray, echography Spay/neuter, dental cleaning General surgery and medicine Import & export requirements

03-6205-7753

2-5-1 Toranomon, Minato-ku www.toranomonvet.jp/en

#1049 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 27

Many more Classified ads online! Please visit classifieds.metropolis.co.jp Seeking yama-girl. I am a Western male, 40, who loves to hike and enjoy natural places, seeking a yama-girl for friendship. scorpiosrealm@hotmail.co.uk Sense of humor is a must! Creative white, bearded British man slowly learning Japanese with a love for rock music and horror films. I'm always laughing even if my jokes are terrible.

What's the worst joke you know? simondbrewer@googlemail.com Serious relationship. European man, 30, living in Tokyo, loves movies, music, travel, seeks a serious relationship. 日 本語大丈夫です. lafranceatokyo2013@ gmail.com Serious, long-term. SWM, 34, welleducated and traveled, with a stable job, seeks true love. If you are 20-30s, warm and caring, and seeking a serious longterm relationship, then please drop me an email. Serious only, no games. No Roppongi girls, please. Lasagna5577@ yahoo.com Sophisticated and cute SJM, 40s, in Kanagawa, seeks interesting, warmhearted Western lady for friendship or possibly more. If you seek a genuine and ideal JM, please just drop me a line. Let's start with communication. toshinoris1012@yahoo.co.jp Swiss female for swim mate. JM, early 40s, into swimming, is seeking a Swiss female for swimming. I swim slowly, but can swim long distances. Prefer pools in Shibuya/northern Minato-ku area. udaishobakka@yahoo.co.jp UK lady. SJM, 30s, tall, slim, lover of books, films, and music, seeks an attractive British lady with the same interests. hurryondownboy@yahoo.co.jp Walk in the park or a movie. Hi, my name is Mike and I'm American. I'm seeking a nice Japanese woman to go out with. I'm 50, 182cm. I also like hiking. usagidesu63@yahoo.com May April 2014 2014

Western girlfriend sought by goodlooking, kind, honest, generous single Japanese guy, 39, 5'8", in Tokyo. mailme77@hotmail.com Will you hold me? I want to hold you in my arms and feel it back. I want to feel connected and not think of anything else. artoistk@hotmail.com 熟年の女性. 60歳以上の女性ですか？ 私はイ

ギリス人の男性です。 ご連絡を待っています。

englishsmiles@live.com

14.3 WOMEN LOOKING FOR MEN

British or northern European male friend sought. I'm a nonsmoking Japanese, 40s, working as a creative freelancer in Tokyo. Missing the UK where I lived for some years. I like tall men with good voices and accents. email@amarrel.com Business traveler? Welcome! Hope to meet nice, classy gentleman on a business trip to Tokyo, I can be your dining partner, guide, friend, etc. I’m a JF, mid-30s, slim, tall, many say I'm good-looking, friendly, nice. roseroseiloveyoujp@yahoo.co.jp Chemistry. Intelligent, 40-ish, shiny, dark long hair, typical Asian beauty, takes good care of herself, seeking a professional, 40s-50s, mature enough to be able to truly connect with a partner. sweet15songs@yahoo.co.jp Companion for lunch/dinner/ activities. Slim, tall, feminine, friendly, English-speaking JF, mid-30s, seeking a gentleman to take me out for dinner at nice restaurants. For sure, I will be a good companion! Let's be good friends to start. roseroseiloveyoujp@ yahoo.co.jp Eu ro p e a n m a n f o r s e r i o u s relationship. I'm a SJF, 30s, seeking a European gentleman as I'm interested in culture. Email me for more info.

Serious and genuine people who know how to introduce themselves only. framboisier@inter7.jp Feminine exotica with genuine heart. Gentle, pure, a little unique and different, hoping to meet my love to nurture a long-term relationship.

Well-educated European with honest, straightforward soul preferred. I am mid-40s. Singles only. nikitaeleon@ yahoo.co.jp Fresh start. JF, attractive, elegant, cultured, 30s, seeks someone who can possibly have a long-term relationship, not marriage-minded though. He should be single, good-looking, Caucasian, 20s/30s, live in Tokyo. Let's enjoy city life together. bmens9182@ yahoo.co.jp Is there someone nice out there?

Attractive and nice Japanese female, mid-40s, seeks someone nice and gentle around my age. Serious only. amitie_454@hotmail.com Japan-loving French guy. SJF seeks a French guy who loves living in Japan, 30s, for a serious relationship, possibly leading to marriage. I am caring, curious and open-minded. Serious only. vinrouge735@gmail.com JF seeking long-term relationship. JF, 59, divorced, living in Yokohama, seeks a W/JM around my age. Let us chat and go out on weekends, then see what happens. No married men. kumakiri. kiyomi@peach.plala.or.jp

S I N G L E S - O N LY D AT I N G EVENTS EVERY FRI NIGHT for foreign men and Japane se women . Leave the event with a new date!

Always more women than men . FREE if signing up in advance! Otherwise, ¥2000. info@exeoi nte rn atio n a l .co m w w w. exeo-international.com

Don't waste time and money

on so-so dental care.

Invest in the best.Your teeth deserve it.

3-2-1 Mita, Minato-ku, Tokyo Clinic hours: 11:00 am - 8:00 pm Closed: Thu, Sun and National Holidays

03-6435-0993

28 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

Located directly across the street from the main gate of Keio University

L AV I S H D AT E S A N D INDULGENT NIGHTS - WE CREATE OPPORTUNITIES for elite foreign males to m e et e l e g a nt J a p a n e s e females. Start with a luxurious dinner date,take the night where you want it to go. Fresh, young women join our club every day. Try our free one-month trial offer: first date is on us! 0120675-858 (E) international@ u n ive r s e - c lu b . j p ht t p : // universe-club.jp/en

Long-term lover. Mature Western lady with sexy mouth and ideas seeks lovely, kind, rich mature Japanese man for loving and more. Write and convince me why you will be good for me and can offer a future of happiness. heston58@ yahoo.com Mature JF seeks generous WM. SJF, 40s, seeks generous WM, late 30s-60s, interested in having dinner, dating, going to private parties, couples’ clubs.

Single, married, visiting men in Tokyo ok. Nonsmokers only. wombatbilby@ yahoo.co.jp New season, new start. JF, attractive, elegant, cultured, 30s, seeks someone who can possibly have a long-term relationship (not marriage-minded).

He should be single, good-looking, Caucasian, 20s/30s. Let’s enjoy city life together. bmens9182@yahoo.co.jp Seeking cat lover. Hi, I'm a SJF, 32, living in central Tokyo, seeking a warmhearted guy for dating, cat lover preferred. I'm slender, pale-skinned, very friendly. If you are interested, please send me a reply, w/photo. sunshine.breeze614@gmail.com Seeking Frenchman for serious relationship. I'm a SJF, 30s, interested in France, seeking a relationship with a sincere and intelligent Frenchman, 25-50. No language exchange or games, please. Serious only. framboisier@inter7.jp

Serious boyfriend. Beautiful Japanese wants to meet someone. No married men, cheaters, casual relationships whatsoever. Prefer someone in the Ichikawa/Nishi-Funabashi area, 27-38, American. I'm 36, with a professional job and multiple talents. gkr93mz@ gmail.com Single businessperson. Femme japonaise de Tokyo, 40s, travaillant dans le domaine de l'information, très sérieuse pour avoir une famille, fan de gastronomie, cherche un homme français célibataire, 35-50. legateaufrancais@yahoo.co.jp SJF seeks British gentleman to share beautiful moments and further adventures with, here or abroad.

Lived in the UK and loved the culture.

Please tell me about yourself and your county. Look forward to hearing from you soon! tydkjyo8yuu5@gmail. com Something new in spring. Japanese female, well-traveled and educated, calm, has lived abroad for several years, mid-40s, seeks Western male, relaxed, tough yet sensitive, openminded, for friendship or serious relationship. travelwriter111@gmail. com Spring date with Japanese female.

International-minded, early 30s, seeking new people for dates. I consider myself attractive and downto-earth. I’m seeking an independent single guy. Message with photo appreciated. Thanks. jpn_camelia@ yahoo.com Sweet lover. European lady, 40, bored, seeking a good lover in Tokyo who knows how to kiss, etc. Let's start from friendship. lina.keye@mail.ru The most important thing I am seeking in a man... is that he cherishes me. Health is very important. I'm early 50s, but look younger than that, and am pretty. Seeking someone younger than me. loveactuallysweetheart@ gmail.com Uh oh, spaghettio. If I spill spaghetti sauce, you won’t mind. I’m a SJF, 30s, intelligent, educated, independent, relaxed, funny, petite, cute. You’re SM, 30-40s, intelligent, educated, financially secure, caring, honest, funny. Friends first. Serious only. Let’s laugh together. icrmjd@gmail.com Younger Asian English speakers with nice bodies and smooth skin?

JF, mid-30s, seeking the same age or younger, good-looking, Englishspeaking Asian guys for discreet fun.

Prefer athletic bodies. I'm slim, tall, people say I'm good-looking, friendly. roseroseiloveyoujp@yahoo.co.jp 飲み友達になりませんか. 都内在住の４０ 代前半独身女性です。都内で飲める友達探して ます。 sorekara0000@gmail.com

14.4 GAY & LESBIAN Serious Japanese guys. GAM in Tokyo, 173, 72, 37, into movies, onsen, traveling, badminton, sign language, violin, aikido. Drop me a line if you are interested in something serious and long-term. Seeking good friends, preferably boyfriend. cynopterustay@ hotmail.com

14.5 ESCORTS ESCORTS HAVE GONE ONLINE. To f i n d a l o v e l y l a d y com panion , vi sit http :// classifieds.metropolis.co.jp/ category/personals/escorts.

14.6 AND OTHERS Explore your fantasies. I am a mature Western man, kantan nihongo daijobu, seeking a JF with fantasies she wants to explore safely and passionately.

Any age, any ideas. Tokyo or within two hours of Tokyo. scorpiosrealm@ hotmail.co.uk Massage exchange. European, 30s, 185cm, athletic, seeking a Japanese lady to enjoy a relaxing and sensual massage exchange. I have large, soft hands and oil from Bali. alfred. manfreud@gmail.com

BY CATHRYN MOE

Horoscope

♥ Love ¥ Money ♣ Luck

ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

May 21-June 20 ♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

June 21-July 22 ♥♥♥♥ ¥¥¥¥ ♣♣♣

Venus has just moved into your sign, and proverbially, not a moment too soon. You need to make some choices!

All of them lead to exciting destinations. But will you have time? If it’s a relationship you’re looking at, Venus wants you to be comfortable. What thrills you? What helps you sink into your own personal bliss? What lifts you to try for a dream you may have stopped believing? Mars in your marriage sector triggers a fast reaction.

Venus just entered your solar twelfth house. From the depths you become aware you are deserving of a life where beauty and appreciation are daily events. The Sun continues to transit your sign, enhancing Taurus Birthday energies. You may feel tempted to try something different when it comes to your home.

You may even cross the line in some unspoken rule it is time to break. Your creativity will save you, with Pallas Athene assisting your powerful imagination.

Friends are the boost you enjoy. Venus sees that you have a group to blend with. At the moment they may offer trips, treats, and yummy eats. How many balls can you keep up in the air? Are you feeling like a juggler at the moment? Or have you got that one sussed?

Your creativity is off the charts, as well as your sports abilities. Mars makes sure you are motivated, and if there is anything that needs improvement, the resources are there for the asking.

Power grows from responsibilities thrust upon you. Jupiter is in Cancer, helping you deal with life at home. At the moment your authority is like walking a tightrope.

Mars retrograde may have you walking backwards with your eyes closed. This is not to keep you in the dark. It’s to heighten your senses and your intuition.

Or help you memorize everything you have in your hallway. Your career is in flux and flowing as fast as ice on a hot summer’s day. Love is on the way.

LEO

VIRGO

Aug 23-Sep 22 ♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣

Sep 23-Oct 22 ♥♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

LIBRA

SCORPIO

Keep your heart strong. Invest in what you believe. Your persona and charisma are hardly ever off, so you won’t be waiting long for your light to shine again. You can undo some of what has happened recently, if you would like. You may also bounce from one script to another, just to see which one you like best. If where you are isn’t really you, Venus has entered your house of long distance travel to make change a comfortable consideration.

Don’t go so far into the forest of details that you can’t find your way out. Analyzing is Virgo’s strength, but the stars give the strongest hands to those who act on intuition at the moment. Pushing through the maze of what can be, you’re able to see ahead to what you’ve got to work with. This is a great boon to those who want to see where their profit margins are finally taking them. Let the leap of faith that’s been begging for attention get the cuddle it is asking from you.

The past few weeks have been hard on Librans, to put it mildly. Now that things have shaken out, sort through your top choices and say goodbye to the rest. For those who pushed through, well done. For those who chose to take a breather, Mars is still retrograde so you have a few weeks to undo the connections that don’t fit.

Take time out to look ahead and consider what you want to be doing and where you want to be living. Is the path you’re on going to take you there?

Stay focused on what’s near and dear to your heart. There are oh so many temptations that just won’t get you where you want to go. Something is playing up behind the scenes with Ceres, Vesta and Mars retrograde creating options. When Mars is retrograde it means slow down, take your time. It’s better to stand still than to go in a direction that won’t serve you. The Sun opposite your sign opens a thrill when it comes to relationships. This is truly a follow-your-heart week.

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

Jan 20-Feb 18 ♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

Feb 19-Mar 20 ♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣

Friends come from all directions this week. Ceres, Vesta and Mars retrograde have your back and support you even when you weren’t going to ask. Money can still be a question mark with Pluto retrograde in your income sector, but that doesn’t stop you from having fun. Soak up the luminescent glow of Venus making the home more luxurious as this planetary goddess arrives in your romance sector on Friday. Will you choose beauty, security, or both?

If you’re willing to sink into a deeper comfort zone, this may be your week.

Choices are being made around you, but with Juno, the Sun and Mercury the messenger in your romance sector, you may not mind.

It’s worth giving yourself this treat, as Venus is adding a dose of beauty or a material addition to your home. The emotional froth you can skim off a relationship is worth your time. Underneath the white caps there is a depth you may just find attractive.

With Jupiter opening up your work life, is there someone who seems to have glued themselves to your every moment? This is merely their expression of caring, but you may want to take a deep breath and look at their motivation.

They think they are being there for you. That’s due to Jupiter in your solar sixth house. Distract them with a mission to help you. Let them come up with ideas to improve your health. Sure, it may drive you crazy.

But it might also be the turn in the road that helps you move up a few steps rather effortlessly.

You may have a fortunate financial week with Venus in your power sector of income. She’s the planetary goddess who wants to see you make that commission, get that bonus, or have a point or two added to your credit. Then she turns it over to those solid back-up players Juno, the Sun and Mercury, who make sure negotiations move in your favor. Security? Check. Comfort? Check.

Luxury? A definite possibility. Romance and children keep you busy and give you big ideas.

Mar 21-April 19 ♥♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

July 23-Aug 22 ♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

Nov 22-Dec 21 ♥♥♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

Apr 20-May 20 ♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣

Dec 22-Jan 19 ♥♥ ¥¥¥¥ ♣♣♣

Metropolis Mediabox SOLE POWER Regarding “The Electric Company” (Global Village, April 18): How many steps does it take to light a bulb? I'm guessing the capital cost of these babies way exceeds the current charging capacity. Nice in theory, but in practice I'm not sure. But hey, if they factor in free ads on every step and sell each step to an advertiser, then it could pay for itself in no time.— CrankyFranky

TRUST US Regarding “A Matter of Trust” (Feature, April 4): Thanks, Todd,

facebook.com/MetropolisMagazine

for this article. This is one of the best pieces I have read in Metropolis in a very long time. Although some English-language media about Japan have reported on the new State Secrets Protection law, it’s simply not enough!

I think it’s great that Japanese people protest. The protests against the State Secrets Protection law, the mess in Fukushima and the criminalization of downloads are still very tame, but I hope this will improve... I hope Metropolis will report more on this and related issues in the future.

—Gojira Biased and poorly researched story; a disappointing excuse for journalism. To begin with, the issue of the Japanese electorate’s ability to trust its government, and conversely the integrity of Japanese politicians to earn the electorate’s trust, is an

CANCER

Oct 23-Nov 21 ♥♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣

PISCES

twitter.com/MetropolisTokyo

issue of political corruption—and this has nothing to do with a State Secrets law. By framing the story as Mr. Wojnowski did, from the standpoint of corrupt politicians trying to use the State Secrets law to cover their backsides when they lie, steal, cheat or misrepresent, he/you have completely obscured the prime issue, which is corruption and abuse of power... He/ you also completely miss pointing out the fact that Japan was alone among all industrialized democracies in that they had neither a State Secrets law nor a law to protect whistleblowers. Do you think Sweden is less democratic than Japan because they have laws designed to protect national defense secrets? Are Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, the U.S. and every member of NATO also less democratic than Japan? Or, perhaps, should you focus on the fact that in addition

to laws protecting state secrets, they also have laws that protect whistleblowers? Was that what you were trying to write? Because you didn’t; you wrote about something completely different.—johnqpublic

GRANNY WALKER Regarding “Sidewalk Circus” (The Last Word, April 4): I live in a part of Tokyo that actually has a few kilometers of both sidewalk and designated bike lane. It is clearly marked where pedestrians should walk and cyclists should ride. But for all it’s worth, every time I ride on it, there are always at least a few elderly people who insist on walking in the bike path. Is it that they don’t understand the concept, or they just don’t respect the differentiation? It's so frustrating... (and dangerous!)

—Citrus

Metropolis wants to hear from you. Send your comments to letters@metropolis.co.jp. Note that letters may be edited for length and clarity.

Metropolis Members Club Register for prizes & discounts www.metropolis.co.jp/club

THIS WEEK’S WINNER!

UPCOMING PRIZE!

Lois Warner 50-minute golf lesson Courtesy of Cool Clubs

One lucky MMC member will win a premium quality kitchen knife Courtesy of Zwilling

#1049 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 29

The Last Word

Want to have The Last Word? Send your article to: editor@metropolis.co.jp CHRISTI ROCHIN

EIKAIWA’S CALM CENTER

Living life on the bottom rung

By William Bradbury

William Bradbury is an English teacher, freelance writer and musician based in Tokyo

I

t’s hard to engage in any sort of online discussion about jobhunting or life in Japan without stumbling across some snarky rema rk about t he eik aiwa industry. Countless articles are out there exposing evil corporations for manipulating teachers and abusing their wide-eyed desire to have an adventure in Japan. I can see why: If you calculate how many hours you spend making money for somebody else, it sounds pretty bad. In fact, it sounds horrible. It sounds like a job.

It’s safe to say that most people in the eikaiwa industry won’t define themselves as English teachers.

They’re travellers, writers, artists, photographers, musicians, filmmakers—or even just fans of these things. Any title is better than “English teacher.” I remember a scene from a house party. As I sat talking to a girl, she asked me, “Are you an artist?” I nodded and began to expand triumphantly until a drunken voice behind me interrupted with, “He’s an English teacher!”

A s much as ma ny Eng l ish

teachers in Japan would like to be defined by their hobbies and dreams, it’s not so easy to sell. Movies set in LA or New York will show you the attractive young lead doing dishes just so he or she can get home and work on his or her passion project— that’s cool. That’s romantic. Yet in Eikaiwa: The Movie you wouldn’t see the character humanized by his desperation: you’d see a guy in a suit talking about natto and chopsticks.

But just because it’s too mundane to be filmed doesn’t mean it’s a bad job.

There aren’t many jobs that give you a chance to be connected to such a wide range of people (students, children, adults) on a daily basis. At its best it’s like an unrecorded podcast: I've met novelists, actresses, psychotherapists and doctors, discussing their professions to a depth I’d never otherwise have had the chance to experience. I’ve learned about game design from a Konami developer working on Metal Gear Solid and discussed the 1970s Sekigun-ha (Japanese Red Army) radical student movement with someone who was a part of it. It’s stimulating, gets you out of your own headspace, and can even be therapeutic.

It also has the added bonus of giving you a chance to pursue your hobbies and passions stress-free.

The alternative path I was on—a high school teacher back home, with its difficult parents, strict curriculum, troublesome pupils and huge class sizes—wouldn’t provide me breathing space to enjoy my free time the way I can here.

I’m not sure why eikaiwa, specifically, is the target of so much virulent negative attention. Sure, the industr y works to edge ever y possible

advantage out of staff and students, but put almost any job under a microscope and you’ll see the people involved are dehumanized. Nobody zones in on bartenders and exposes all the ways they’re abused and forced to work unsociable hours for little pay. Most people doing the job know what they sign up for, take it for what it is, and try to find joy in the rest of their lives. I once got talking to an accountant who urged me to join him in accountancy, but he missed the point: a mind-numbing career with numbers doesn’t appeal to me either. I never had a career in mind. I always avoided responsibilities, and eikaiwa teaching is a job where that’s kind of OK. T here a re ma ny pat ron izi ng voices out there intent on reminding you that you’re on the lowest rung of the ladder in Japan, but the lowest rung has its perks. The salary

I’M NOT SURE WHY EIKAIWA, SPECIFICALLY, IS THE TARGET OF SO MUCH VIRULENT NEGATIVE ATTENTION.” is enough to live relatively comfortably in the most expensive city in the world, with fairly long holidays and little to no overtime.

I’ve been reminded countless times that only a small percentage of the money generated by my work makes it to my paycheck. Yet this is a painful part of life for a large number of professions, not just teachers in eikaiwa schools. If you can use your job as a platform for enjoying life—be that through study, hobbies, self-improvement or travel—I’d take that over raking in cash and having no time to do anything with it.

The views expressed in "The Last Word" are those of the authors alone and do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions of Japan Partnership Inc. or its partners and sponsors.

METROPOLIS is Japan's No.1 English magazine, founded in 1994 and published for Japan’s international community.

It is the only English-language publication in Japan that distributes up to 30,000 copies per printed issue.

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Neil Butler EDITORIAL Jeff W. Richards (EDITOR-IN-CHIEF) Mike Kanert (EDITOR) Lisa Wallin (EDITORIAL ASSISTANT) Anna Cock Gibson (PROOFREADER) Taiichi Izawa, Layla Nagasaka (INTERNS) CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Dan Grunebaum (ENTERTAINMENT) Don Morton (MOVIES) C.B. Liddell (ARTS) Fred Varcoe (SPORTS) DESIGN Kohji Shiiki (ART DIRECTOR) Davi Azevedo (DESIGNER) Minh Douangprachanh (WEB DESIGNER) Daniel Chapman (WEB DEVELOPER) PRODUCTION Helen Langford (PRODUCTION ASSISTANT) ADVERTISING Akane Ochi (DIRECTOR OF SALES) Karl Nakashima, Keiji Yamano (SALES MANAGERS) Kanae Mochizuki, Jonathan Grogan, Claire Lin (SALES EXECUTIVES) Ai Hosokawa (SALES ASSISTANT) Lyn Lin, Cecilia Coudene, Angiele Cabaluna (INTERNS) ADMINISTRATION/ACCOUNTING Jeanette Komatsu (MANAGER) Michiko Anezaki (ADMINSTRATION/ CLASSIFIEDS) Masami Nagase (INTERN) IT Guilhem Malfre

facebook.com/MetropolisMagazine

twitter.com/MetropolisTokyo

editor@metropolis.co.jp

Reach over 60,000 Metropolis readers. Advertise with us: sales@metropolis.co.jp; http://metropolis.co.jp/advertise 外国人集客なら６万人の読者を持つNo.1ブランド・メトロポリスをご活用ください。詳しくは：03-4588-2277 © Copyright 2014 Japan Partnership Inc. The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to edit or delete any advertisement without notice.

30 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

8F Nishi-Azabu Sonic Bldg, 3-2-12 Nishi-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0031 TEL 03-4588-2277 FAX 03-4588-2278 WEB metropolis.co.jp